











* .-. 



■ ^'■./•^ ' - .■■''. ■■••.".- 



■iij-ji' ^l^ 













< :-,:: 




••w. 



FORD EXCHAN' 



/, . 2 



A VISION 



— OF— 




fe %vch <4 ®t«t!i. 



AN ALLEGORY; 
AND ADDITIONAL POEMS, 



-BY — 



JOSEPH FOSTER KNICKERBACKER. 



TROY, N. Y. : 

Wm H. Young, 8 & ^ First, and 214 River Street. 
1876. 









Mi. 



46940 







NOTE. 

The author of the within desires to say, that it is not designed as an 
exposition of any particular school or system of Theology ; such themes 
have been left to those whose high avocation it is to treat of them. And 
though, in a general sense, this may be considered a religious book, (and 
it is sincerely hoped it may be of some service in that respect) yet he 
who wrote it lays no especial claim to personal sanctity of character ; 
and amid the awful perplexities which encompass us — these times, that 
so try men's souls — he would be found to be among the lowliest of his 
readers, in seeking the "Arch of Truth." 

In adopting the form of an iMlegory — a species of writing to which, 
he is aware, numerous persons object, — he will simply add, he has only 
humbly followed in the footsteps of many illustrious ones who have 
chosen this field of literature ; and therefore, if in the wrong, he has the 
consolation of knowing he errs in the company of the God-like. 

He would improve the opportunity, by expressing his deep-felt obli- 
gations to several friends, for valuable criticisms and suggestions during 
the progress of this, the feeble result of his labors. 

J. F. K. 

At the Hostead, Schaghticoke, September, 1875. 



INDEX TO POEMS. 



Invocation, ....... i8 

Cherish the Moments !..... 28 

Selections FROM " Paradise Lost," . .. . -34 

Canticle, ....... 42 

Come Greet the Gate Beautiful ! . . . • '44 

The Bowers of Truth, . . . . . 51 

Seeking the Beautiful ! Seeking the True ! . . -57 

Charity, ....... 60 

The Crown of Manhood, . . . , -63 

The Shrine of Womanhood, ..... 66 

The Hours of Childhood, . . . . .68 

The Youth and the Maiden, .... 70 

Hymn Laudative, ....... 75 

Hymn of Welcome, ...... 77 

Hymn Responsive, . . . . . . -79 

A Bridal Melody, ...... 84 

ADDITIONAL POEMS. 

The True Blessings of Life, . . . . -93 

Deeds of Mercy Crown Themselves, ... 97 

The Standard of the Brave ! . . . . • 100 

Our Starry Flag, . . . . • • 102 



O INDEX. 

Noble Land of Washington ! . . . . . 107 

Loyalty, . . . . . . . 109 

Trust in the Banner Waving o'er us ! . . .. .113 

An Autograph, . . . . . . . 117 

The Sunnyside Penman, . . . . . .119 

With Hero's Mind AND Heart ! . . . . 126 

Hymn to Truth, ....... 130 

The Man of the Time !..... 132 

Good that's Done by Poet's Lays, . . . -135 

Ending and Endless, . . . . . . 143 




To THE Home of his Childhood, 

ITS HALLOWED ASSOCIATIONS ; 

AND TO THE HOLY MEMORY OF DEAR FRIENDS DEPARTED : 

THIS LITTLE WORK 

IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED 

By lis Al'lHOR. 



MUSING BENEATH AN OAK. 



fT was a lovely moonlit evening, early in the golden month, 
September; the season when Nature appears m her most 
attractive beauty, her choicest jewels and richest vesture 
displaying, while teaching her lessons of deepest wisdom.. 

The barns of the husbandman were filled with the in- 
gatherings of a recent harvest ; though the earth was still 
teeming with increase, and the trees were adorned with 
clusters of ripening fruits, the bounties of an ever-provi- 
dent Creator. 

The stars (faithful guardians of night) by their presence 
added the charm of security. The beast was resting from 
his burden; the laborer, after daily toil, had sought his simple 
rustic meal, and early home repose ; the lambs — enfolded 
amid sleep's kind embrace — were reclining upon the hill- 
side, in renewal, for fresh gambols on the morrow; the birds 
their vespers sweet had sung, and found their peaceful 



lO ARCH OF TRUTH. 

nests ; while the blooming dairy-maid — blithesome, win- 
some, and happy — had just returned from her cheerful duty 
with vessels full-laden with rich foaming milk, gladly sing- 
ing as she sped along, some sylvan love ditty, or coyly 
stooped to pluck a wayside flower with which to greet proud 
neighboring swain ; and all arouiid was stillness, save the 
monotonous chirping of the crickets, the gentle murmuring 
of passing rivulet, and the hush'd sounds borne from a dis- 
tant waterfall. 

It was in a beautiful fertile valley, traversed by meander- 
ing steams, studded with rural homes, circled by thick- 
wooded landsides, and teeming, with, what were to me, ever- 
hallowed associations, — for it had been for many generations 
the dwelling-place of my kindred, and was still the scene 
of scenes wherein I best loved to linger, enjoying the calm 
repose of contentment, — that I sat musing beneath the 
branches of a venerable Oak,* whose deepening shadows 
wafted far adown that peaceful vale gave a charm of serene 
loveliness to the intervening landscape. 

And I thought, as I gazed upon its towering and far- 



*An ancient Indian council-tree, still standing. 




T<f^ 




r 



Had it tongue to speak, what tales might it un- 
fold (that old Oak-tree) of centuries passed 
away." 



ARCH OF TRUTH. II 

reaching frame, stamped with the hoary impress of ages; 
that—" had it tongue to speak, what tales might it unfold, 
(that old Oak-tree,) of centuries passed away ? Of what 
erst may have occurred in the earlier time, within the quiet 
region wherein I now reclined in pensive reverie." 

" How that — epochs agone — it stood but as one among 
the trees of a forest, when the merry birds did sing upon 
its boughs, and the squirrels frisked among its branches ; 
and the wolves and foxes prowled around it, and the wild 
Indian roamed beneath it, and made there his watch-fires, 
and smoked his peaceful Calumet, and held his civic coun- 
cils ; while he sought for fish in those neighboring streams, 
and hunted game upon the surrounding hills, and planted 
his patch of corn, and wrought his deer-skin garments, and 
thatched his bark-built cabin." 

"And how, that anon, the White man came from a distant 
country, to greet that "Vale of Peace,"* and site of the 
"Min-gling Waters"; bearing with him the cultured arts 
and implements of civilization ; and — felling the surround- 

*So called by the early settlers. The Indian name for the township, Schaghti- 
coke, signifying, Mingling Waters. 



12 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

ing trees — furrowed those lands, and sowed them with 
foreign seeds, and built him store-houses, and made that 
his place of habitation ; while Heaven (smiling upon his 
labors) filled his garners with plenteousness, and enriched 
his home with blessings." 

"And how that, soon other White-men followed, and set- 
tling there, formed round about a clustered neighborhood, 
over which reigned rural peacefulness and contentment." 

"And how, that, alas ! — in after years — a season of tribu- 
lation came ; yea, with death's grim scourge it came to 
blight that smiling vale !* When frantic tales were told of 
darksome, daily-deed ! and wailings dire, were heard there- 
in ; and cries of fear ; and deep-lisped moanings of des- 
pair ! When children ran to their mother's arms for refuge, 
who, holding them up to Heaven, besought from thence 
protecting aid from frenzied hand of rampant fiend-assassin! 
When fathers, husbands and brothers — leaving their ploughs 
amid the field — rushed to their dwellings, and seized their 
rifles, and barricaded their thresholds ! For the now mad- 



*The Indian Massacres during the Seven-years-war, are here alluded to. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. I3 

dened, Indian-savage, — made to be an avenger, by the sel- 
fish wiles of warrior-foe, — had come with tomahawk and 
scalping-knife, to bring sorrow amid those late gladsome, 
wayside homes, through the revolting rite of infernal mas- 
sacre." 

"And how, that, from thence — in still other, after years — 
those seasons of harrowing grief had passed away; while 
happiness and prosperity, once more illumed that valley 
green with the sparkling beams of rapt delight ; and man's 
labors afresh were blest, in tilth, and growth, and fruitage, 
and his garners, anew, instored." 

"And how, that when — in yet later, after years — the war 
did wage which made this land a land of Liberty, that 
beauteous vale became a soldier's rendezvous, — pending 
the battle's strife on the Heights of near-by Saratoga — to 
which its stalwart braves, leaving their abodes at the spoil- 
er's mercy, had early gone, and in spheres of trust and 
prowess, had risen to be ranked among the memorable !" 

"And how, that when that war had ceased, wholesome 
peace, restored, again brought settled life, with freshened 
hopes, and cares, and duties, and man's daily lot of good 



14 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

and ill, commingled ; while sweetly smiled the Summer- 
blooms, and all nature basked in halcyon-tide." 

And I thought, while I still sat musing beneath the yet 
hardy-seeming branches of the grand old Oak, it might 
further relate : — " How, that where now in vista near was 
seen (through the placid moonlight) a grove-clad place of 
sepulture, reposing in nature's sweet embosomment by the 
hillside ; — that thence, whilom, — an old man was borne to a 
new-made grave. And, in aftertime, his son, and his son's 
sons, even for many generations, each advanced to hoary 
eld — like shocks of corn fully ripe — had within that sacred 
garner-field been gathered to the harvest," 

And I further imagined — that, that venerable Saga-tree, 
(so exuberant in the chronicle-fruitage of ages) might go 
on in its wisdom to describe to me the many events which 
had transpired — in the elder days — within the stately old 
" Hostead " of my progenitors, still looming in all its 
pristine glory, amid the grand sequestered groves, near-by, 
where I was now reclining. 

Its alternate scenes, of joy and sorrow, of festival, and 
repose. Births, bridals, deaths ; the strange mutations all, 




" A GROVE-CLAD PLACE OF SEPULTURE, REPOSING IN NA- 
TURE'S SWEET EMBOSOMMENT DY THE HILLSIDE." 



ARCH OF TRUTH. jc 

occurring within its aged, time-bemantled walls ! " How 
that generation after generation had entered through its 
portals. How that within was ever spread the hospitable 
board, to which the open heart of welcome greeted alike 
the friend and the stranger. How that honesty was always 
there the kingly virtue, with industry for its devoted friend 
and counsellor. How that therein had been seen the sacred 
family altar descending from father to son, and raising its 
morning and evening incense to the skies, till many, many 
years had been numbered among the days of its offerings. 
How that youths and maidens had there been born, grown up 
and passed to other scenes on the stage of life ; and then 
again had come, with their children, and children's children, 
from divergent courses of destiny, to revisit the home of 
their ancestors, and to pause by the ancient and venerated 
sepulchres of their sires ; to hear through the lips of golden- 
mouthed tradition the incidents of the happy times agone ; 
to gather up each olden legend, sprite, and faery-tale, and 
memorized deed romantic ; to wander with reverential foot- 
steps around the shrines, sacred and beloved through hal- 
lowed association ; each hill, and glen, streamlet, and 



l6 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

meadow, the "haunted hall," the wayside, rustic school, 
and the ancient church, where they have paid their devo- 
tions in their childhood, and their kindred for generations 
before them !" 

But I may not further allude to this, for my thoughts 
were now directed toward that grave old "Council-tree," 
with the mingled sentiments of love and veneration, I had 
known it from my infancy. It had been before my vision 
in moments of noblest joy, amid seasons of deepest sorrow. 
I now sought to gather, therefrom, the ennobling fruits of 
wisdom. 

And while I sat gazing with admiring wonder upon its 
sublime proportions, and majestic beauty; and musing on 
the passing away of all things mutable ; my reveries thus 
took form : 

" Can it be, that thou, grand old Oak ! once the monarch 
of the surrounding forest, and still serene in thy august 
majesty, and tranquil, venerable glory ; can it be that thou 
who hast so long endured the ravages of time, breasted so 
mightily the storms of ages, defied so often the thunder- 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 17 

bolts from Heaven — nature's noblest emblem of forbearing 
mercy, of strength, and of fortitude — can it be that thou 
too, must fall, in all thy stately pride, and that thou too, 
must pass away ? " 

" The prostrate form of thy brother Oak,* tells me it is 
even so ! That there is naught however venerable, and 
naught however sublime, but that in a moment may be 
blasted at Heaven's will, and by Heaven's power !" 



A neighboring tree — the trunk of which measured twenty feet in circumference 
— was drawn up from its root, and prostrated by a whirlwind. 



INVOCATION 



Come to me, come to me, 
Visions of Night ! 
In the moon-light — 
'Neath the stars bright- 
Come to me, come to me, 
Visions of Night ! 

Hopefulness bringing, 
My heart is singing, 
Joyfully singing — 
Echoing — ringing — 
Come to me, come to me, 
Visions of Night ! 

Come to me, come to me. 

Visions of Night ! 
Duty expressing ; 
Virtue impressing ; 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Loving — caressing — 
Teeming with blessing — 

Come to me, come to me, 
Visions of Night ! 
In the moon-light — 
'Neath the stars bright — 

Come to me, come to me. 
Visions of Night ! 



19 



VISION OF THE ARCH, 



-r-fSsXHEN in the midst of these eventide reveries beneath 
V^\y^ the quiet shades of that venerable Oak, there was 
pictured to my mind what appeared to arise upon the land- 
scape before me, in the form of a grand and imposing struc- 
ture, of wondrous design, and of seeming celestial origin, 
with the words 

"ARCH OF TRUTH" 
inscribed thereon in letters of radiant brightness. 

This edifice (as I witnessed it) represented a lofty over- 
circled gate-way, or entrance to courts of surpassing glory 
and adornment ; and was, in its every part, a holy type of 
the portal opening to the abodes of Immortality. 

It stood on an elevation, known as the "Rock of Ages." 
Its foundation was that of " Inspired Reason." Its rich 
emblazoned pillars — wrought from gold refined within the 
crucible of Holiness — were called by the sacred name of 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 21 

^' Revelation." While its Keystone — of finest alabaster, ex- 
quisitely graven — teemed with costly jewels, in the center 
of which shone a sapphire, the deep blue of whose lustrous 
crest was, a symbol of Faith, surrounded by the ever-shining 
gems of Honor, Fidelity, and Obedience. 

About and within this Arch, or gate-way, were displayed 
in magnificent profusion, precious stones and flowers of 
choicest dye; and all the various insignia illustrative of the 
virtues and heavenly graces. 

I observed upon it, blooming now in coy and simple 
modesty, a white rose ; whose unconscious sweetness be- 
tokened an emblem of Innocence. And by the rose beamed 
the pearl of a guileless Conscience. While here was set a 
diamond-brilliant, the clearness of whose imperial lustre 
was that of Honesty. And here, blossomed the olive of 
Peace, and there a fair lily of HumiUty, the laurel of Glory, 
and the iris-hued amaranth of ImmortaHty. 

Anon, I descried thereon a coronal of roses, representing 
in beauteous array life's many clustering Virtues. And 
upon the summit of the Arch, high-loomed a golden crown 
of matchless worth and splendor, the name of which was 



22 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

" Love "; while near to the crown lay the potent crosier- 
sceptre, styled the "Moral Will." 

And I further descried therein, entwined by the ivy of 
Conviction, a fresh enwoven garland, " with gay enameled 
colors mixed," composed of tender violets, and tulips bright, 
delicate eglantines and jessamine, sweet-scented heliotropes, 
hyacinths, and primroses, and all the various flowers denot- 
ing Piety, Gentleness, Simplicity, Fortitude, Trustfulness 
and Joy ; while effulgent amid the blossoms shone the 
yellow-sheened topaz of priceless Beneficence. 

Pendent from the key-stone of the Arch, and holden by 
the golden chain of Rectitude, was a rich-shining casket, 
chastely wrought of burnished metal, and filled with jewels, 
among which were glittering garnets, and soft mossy agates, 
azure-hued turquoises, cornelian gems, purple-crested ame- 
thysts, the crimson-tinted coral, and other stones, symbolical 
of the virtues of Knowledge, Temperance, Meekness, 
Brotherly-love and Kindness, — peerless among them glow- 
ing the unclouded crysolite of Reverence, the deep-dyed 
carbuncle of Self-sacrifice, and the flaming opal of Heaven- 
ly ardor. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 23 

And I observed, that there too, were odorous gums and 
spices, with costly incense distiUing ambrosial redolence ; 
and that, brought from each clime and sphere, were choicest 
fruits in 'luring clusters, of aromatic flavor and immortal 
nutriment, and all emblematical of the holy gifts and 
graces. 

And therein, also, in wondrous array, were tokens mani- 
fold — precious votive ofl"erings from the peoples of every 
age who had made the shrine of Truth the goal of their 
pilgrimage. 

And I seemed to hear — borne from thence on the soft 
clear air of even — the tones of chiming bells, and strains 
from choir in joyful carol and anthem grave, in harmonic 
accord with the soul-soothing melodies of the harp, and 
grand diapasoned organ-notes. And the inspiring words of 
praise and prayer were there, and of solemn warning, and 
fervent exhortation ; and I knew that yonder scene was the 
blessed abode of all the attributes of Holiness. 

And I noticed especially, while I sat gazing thereon, that 
were any jewel, or flower, or other symbolic device, remov- 
ed from about that edifice, it was immediately restored — or 



24 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

rather, it appeared as if no change had been made thereof, 
for an essence perennial seemed to pervade the scene, en- 
shrining it as if with the presence of an immutable sacred- 
ness. 

Just within the Arch-way stood the font of Spiritual 
blessing, and beyond the font high rose the grand altar of 
Oblation, on which were placed the burnished service-ves- 
sels, and over which, clad in shining raiment, were winged 
Cherubim, gazing upon the Book of the Heavenly Mysteries, 
whose inspired words of wisdom lay opened before them. 
And at the left of the altar — entwined with typical ears of 
wheat-corn, and clusters of the grape, and filled with all the 
virtues ineffable — appeared the urn known as that of the 
Sacred Symbols. 

While, near to the altar, was the armor of Holiness, the 
armlet of Faithfulness, the buckler of Wisdom, the breast- 
plate of Sincerity, the shield of Devotion (emblazoned with 
the crest of the Lamb bearing the golden cross), the sword 
of the Spirit, the helmet of Salvation — and a bright halo- 
circled throne, whereon was seated the benign form of the 
Spirit of Truth, represented as an angel queen, clothed in 



ARCH OF TRUTH. ^ 25 

vesture of needlework, of needlework of divers colors, in- 
wrought with precious stones ; on her feet sandals of peer- 
less beauty, and upon her brow a jeweled diadem resplen- 
dent as with the radiance of celestial glory. 

Across the Arch — and before the Grace-assuring font — 
was placed the strong iron-bound gate, called Repentance, 
composed of the bars of sin, but which, on being opened 
by the potent key of Prayer, disclosed to view, in vista of 
unspeakable grandeur, all the typical treasures and marvel- 
lous insignia adorning those spacious courts, proud among 
which loomed the altar of Oblation, and throne of the 
Queen-angel. 

As princely champion, and grand almoner of Truth, 
there stood within her walls one crowned with symbol- 
mitre, and arrayed in vestal robes ; and commissioned from 
on high to administer the graces spiritual, and keep from 
daily harm the purity of the virtues, as well as to guard the 
costly vessels and sacred garniture therein. He was of the 
noble order of the Priesthood, and bore the jeweled crosier- 
sceptre and Banner of the Cross. 

And, shedding around each hallowed shrine the encheer- 
4 



26 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

ing rays of heavenly peace and gladness, while He now be- 
nignly came to bless the sacred font; and now, the mystic 
urn ; and now, the votive-altar ; and anon, the priceless 
crown ; — scattering, in his wavy way, the inspiring fumes of 
etherial incense; — was '' the Dove covered with silver wings, 
and whose feathers are like gold," and who bears the regen- 
erating graces. He was the Dove of the Holy Spirit. 

At the left of the sapphire of Faith — upon the keystone 
of the Arch — beamed the sparkling green-emerald of Hope, 
while at its right shone a ruby, the deep carmine hue of 
whose effulgent crest betokened the brightness of Charity. 

And then, these three last — in name, Hope, Faith and 
Charity — as if they were of rank supreme among the virtues 
noblest, I beheld were thus again represented in beauteous, 
befitting emblem : 

From out the earth there sprang a twig, bright, green and 
flourishing, the name of which was Hope. Soon, it sent its 
roots deeper within the soil, while it also upward grew, and 
anon developed into a full-formed tree, which, towering 
aloft in glory, strength and grandeur, spread its graceful 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 2*J 

waving branches, clothed with luxuriant foliage far over the 
Arch of Truth. 

This tree was called the " Tree of Faith, the leaves where- 
of are used for the healing of nations. 

And, I observed, that blossoms fair and fragrant now 
adorned that Tree of Faith, and diffused on all around 
inspiring balms and odors, while the birds in festal plumage 
came to carol amid their beauties, and the provident bee to 
imbide their cheering succulents. Soon the blooms were 
gone, and then appeared the embryos, in clusters choice 
and manifold, which, even while I gazed, seemed to form, 
mature, and mellow, into the delectable fruitage, Charity. 

And I further beheld, that within that lofty arch-structure 
was placed an ever-flowing spring called the " Fountain of 
Justice," over which spirit forms were hovering, and casting 
incense therein, giving sweetness and purity to its waters. 
They were the angel-spirits of Mercy. 

And encircling the edifice were clouds of transcendent 
lustre, continuously dropping the dew of Heavenly Grace ; 
while high amid the firmament shone the beautiful bow of 



28 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Promise, and the cloudless sun of Righteousness, which 
shedding its soft regenerative beams upon and within 
Truth's hallowed portal-way, illumined it " with a radiancy 
of glory and bliss beyond compare." 

And then there came floating through my mind, to my 
imagination, these words : 

CHERISH THE MOMENTS. 



" Cherish the Moments! Time is e'er ending ; 
Cherish them, fearing. Future impending ; 

Loving them truly, the noble pursue — 
Virtue and honor, chivalrous duty. 
Beneficence sweet, blooming with beauty — 

Charity, mercy, and purity, due !" 

" Cherish the Moments ! bounteous, given ; 
JEarth rich adorning, guiding to Heaven ; 

Proudly them seeking, all evil eschew — 
Life -jewels are they, gems of probation, 
Precious, eternal, worthy oblation — 

Hearts bravely ardent, high-minded, and true. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 29 

" Cherish the Moments ! Wisdom them holding 
Of priceless value, daily unfolding, 

Grace never-ending, souls meet to renew — 
Treasures, uncounted, ingots of power, 
Gold ever-shining, illuming each hour — 
Lustrously glowing, the steadfast to woo !" 

" Cherish the Moments ! Mortals, immortal. 
As offerings choice, from angels' portal — 

Droppings unceasing of heavenly dew — 
Faithful, unfearing, warmly endearing. 
All that is holy, brightly encheering — 

Glorious Moments that blessings bestrew !" 

And now I descried, in the midst of the Vison, that, flow- 
ing toward the portal of Truth was an ever winding and 
often perilous stream, called the " River of Life," which, 
taking its rise far in the distance, meandered through every 
diversity of climate and landscape, while its surface was 
covered with the barks of those who had started to reach 
that sacred harbor. 



30 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Childhood, Youth, Manhood, and Old-age, (the four sea- 
sons of mortality,) were there in countless numbers, all be- 
ing borne adown the River, and the greater portion of 
whom, I witnessed, had already become as wrecks upon its 
billows, through their inability, or indifference, to encounter 
the difficulties of the voyage. 

And I saw that among the manifold flotillas which cov- 
ered those waters, — in multitude, like sands upon the sea- 
shore, — were those of every form and variety. Some were 
crafts of the most exquisite beauty and workmanship, 
freighted with souls of choicest endowment and paragon 
graces. Some were filled with fame, riches, and power; 
while others were laden with poverty, misfortune and neg- 
lect. Some conveyed them who were of the schools of the 
Prophets ; some the proud scions of royalty ; some the gen- 
tle almoners of Charity ; some the Apostles of the wonders 
of Faith ; and some, the champions of the blessed spirit of 
Mercy. Many, I observed, acted as convoys, or guides, — 
either good-ward or evil-ward, — to crafts of less perfect 
build, or feebler nature ; while numberless boats there were, 
which, though of crudest outline and simplest structure, — 



K. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 3I 

oftentimes frail and unattractive, it may be, and with seem- 
ing difficulty kept afloat, — yet withal, were of priceless value ; 
for they carried the sick, the infirm, the lowly and unfriend- 
ed of earth ; but, who, on reaching the award-bestowing 
haven, were often ranked as among the worthiest to receive 
the proudest diadems of glory. 

x\nd I further saw, that over every bark presided the 
form of what appeared to be its guardian spirit, the name 
gf which was the "Angel of Love." Each of these spirits 
was adorned with a crown of honor ; its wings were the 
lustrous pinions from which was wafted the precious incense 
of Salvation. It bore triumphant the shield of Faith invin- 
cible, wherewith it was able to quench all the fiery darts of 
the wicked, and wielding the sword of the Spirit; its loins 
were girt about with the armor of Truth, guarded by the 
breast-plate of Righteousness, while its feet were shod with 
the preparation of the Gospel of Peace. 

And yet, I observed, that though those guardian beings 
were all of them of the loveliest aspect, and most benignant 
favor, and though they were continuously present, and were 
ever pointing toward the haven of safety, still were they, in 



32 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

innumerable instances, disregarded by those within the 
barks, who were governed rather by the influences of other 
surroundings, or the carved images of their own devising. 

This River of Life, as it flowed adown its course, was 
beset with trials and dangers unlimited ; dreaded shoals and 
breakers, storms and whirlpools, and darkness felt and visi- 
ble ; and I saw, that at times, it passed through realms of 
unceasing frost, and again, among regions of seeming peren- 
nial flre, and now amid dark-tangled wildernesses pervaded 
by deadly upas and miasmatic fumes ; and anon, between 
drear-crowned mountain-gorges, so dark, and deep, and 
narrow, that there appeared to be no egress, while the huge, 
tottering boulders above, ever threatened to fall upon and 
overwhelm the trembling voyagers. 

And I observed, that for a long distance of its way it 
traversed a gloomy desert tract, the name of which was the 
" Valley of Sorrow." 

And I further beheld that even while it seemed clearest 

and serenest, when its shores were most beautiful and al- 

. luring, and the sun shone brightest upon its waters, and soft 

aromas from fair flowers and rich clustered fruitage lent 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 33 

enchantment to the circumambient air, and all nature ap- 
peared to bask as if in an elysium of unfading loveliness, 
that then, ah ! even then, was greatest danger imminent ; for 
its borders were infested with divers kinds of evil spirits, 
among which were those called the " Ignoble Temptations." 

Some of these came to the voyagers and allured them to 
a frail, though imposing structure, standing on the shore, 
entitled the Palace of Ambition, while thousands were thus 
led astray by their syrenic devices. And other tempter- 
spirits there were, that were the worshipers of a huge 
molten image, named Riches, which sat clothed in imperial 
splendor within the tower of Gold. And these too, like 
those of Ambition, had for their followers thousands multi- 
plied by thousands. 

And I beheld hundreds of voyagers who had been seduced 
to the gilded abodes of Infamy, or to the temple of Delu- 
sion, or to the castle of Indolence, or to the bowers of 
Ease, or haply, to the enchanting gardens of Pleasure, re- 
splendent with flowers and melody. While others there 
were who had resisted these various wiles of the charmers, 
^nd had come in humbleness of spirit and simplicity of 
5 



34 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

heart, quietly, peacefully, and ail-lovingly, to fall before the 
shrine of the blessed Angel of Truth. 

And now again, the Arch, in all its glory, and with all its 
wondrous surroundings, loomed before me. 

And I saw in the vision, that from 

" Out of the fertile ground were caused to grow 
All trees of noblest kind, for sight, smell, taste ; 
While all amid them stood the tree of life 
High eminent, blooming ambrosial fruit 
Of vegetable gold." 

And that, there 

" Rose a fresh fountain, which with many a rill 
Watered the fragrant earth ; 
And from that sapphire font the crisped brooks 
Rolling on orient pearl and sands of gold. 
With mazy error under pendant shades 
Ran nectar, visiting each plant, and fed 
Flowers worthy of Paradise." 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 35 

And that there were 

" Groves where rich trees wept odorous gums and balm ; 

Others whose fruit burnished with golden rind 

Hung amiable, and of delicious taste :" 
" Flowers of all hue, and without thorn the rose; 

" Another side umbrageous grots and caves 
Of cool recess, o'er which the mantling vine 
Laid forth her purple grape, and gently crept 
Luxuriant." 

" Blossoms and fruit at once of golden hue 
Appeared, with gay enameled colors mixed; 
On which the sun more glad impressed his beams 
Than in fair morning cloud, or humid bow, 
When God had showered the earth ; so lovely seemed 
The landscape. While gentle gales 
Fanning their oderiferous wings, dispensed 
Native perfumes, and whispered whence they stole 
Those balmy spoils." 

" The birds their choir applied ; airs, vernal airs. 



^6 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Breathing the smell of field and grove, attuned 
The trembling leaves." 

" Tables were set, and on a sudden piled 
With angels' food, and rubied nectar flowed 
In pearl, in diamond, and massy gold, 
Fruit of delicious vines, the growth of Heaven." 

And that there rose what seemed 

" A blissful bower, whose roof 
Of thickest covert, was inwoven shade, 
Laurel, and myrtle ; and what higher grew 
Of firm and fragrant leaf : on either side 
Acanthus, and each odorous bushy shrub 
Fencing up the verdant wall ; each beauteous flower. 
Iris all hues, roses and jessamine. 

Reared high their flourished heads between and wrought 
Mosaic ; underfoot the violet. 
Crocus, and hyacinth, with rich inlay 
Broidered the ground, more colored than with stone 
Of costliest emblem." 

And, far distant, I descried 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 

" Ascending by degrees magnificent 
Up to the wall of Heaven, a structure high ; 
At top whereof, but far more rich, appeared 
The work as of a kingly palace gate, 
With frontispiece of diamond and gold 
Embellished ; thick with sparkling orient gems 
The portal shone, inimitable on earth 
By model or by shading pencil drawn." 

" The place did seem beyond expression bright, 
Compared with aught on earth, metal or stone ; 
Not all parts like, but all alike informed 
With radiant light, as glowing iron with fire ; 
If stone, carbuncle most, or crysolite. 
Ruby or topaz, or the twelve that shone 
On Aaron's breast-plate." 

" Underneath a bright sea flowed 
Of jasper, or of liquid pearl, whereon 
Who came from earth, sailing arrived 
Wafted by angels, or "flew o'er the lake 
Wrapped in a chariot drawn by fiery steeds." 



37 



38 - ARCH OF TRUTH. 

From thence 

" A seraph winged ; six wings he wore to shade 
His lineaments divine ; the pair that clad 
Each shoulder broad, came mantling o'er his breast 
With regal ornament ; the middle pair 
Girt like a starry zone his waist, and round 
Skirted his loins and thighs with downy gold 
And colors dipped in heaven ; the third his feet 
Shadowed from either heel with feathered mail, 
Sky-tinctured grain. Like Maia's son he stood. 
And shook his plumes that heavenly fragrance filled 
The circuit' wide. And now had come 
Unto that blissful scene, through groves of myrrh, 
And flowing odors, cassia, nard, and balm ; 
A wilderness of sweets : for nature there 
Wantoned as in her prime, and played at will 
Her virgin fancies, pouring forth more sweet. 
Wild above rule and art; enormous bliss."* 



* Paradise Lost, selections chiefly, from Books III, IV. and V. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 39 

And now I observed, as if descending from the skies, a 
cloud-wrought bow of surpassing radiance, which, Hke a 
grand aureola, formed round about and over-circled the 
Arch ; while, in the midst of it, in letters of golden light, 
were transfigured these words : 

" §he §hnrch of the givinf^ §al tlt^ gilkii mtd 
^raittfd of tffe ^mtJu* 

Which told that the structure before me was an emblem 
of the Gate-Beautiful, which opens to the courts of the 
Temple of Wisdom, the sacred resting place for those who 
are to be transported to that Heavenly City, thus wondrous- 
ly descried by the holy Seer, in Apocalytic vision : — 

" And there came unto me one of the seven angels, and 
talked with me, saying. Come hither, I will show thee the 
bride, the Lamb's wife." 

" And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and 
high mountain, and showed me that great city, the holy Je- 
rusalem, descending out of heaven from God, having the 
glory of God : and her light was like unto a stone most 
precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;" 



40 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

" And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, 
and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, 
which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of 
Israel : on the east three gates ; on the north three gates ; 
on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. And 
the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of 
the twelve Apostles of the Lamb." 

"And he that talked with me had a golden reed to meas- 
ure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof." 

" And the city lieth four square, and the length is as large 
as the breadth. And he measured the city with the reed, 
twelve thousand furlongs. The length, and the breadth, 
and the heighth of it are equal," 

" And he measured the wall thereof, a hundred and forty 
and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is 
of the angel." 

"And the building of the wall of it was of jasper; and 
the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass." 

"And the foundations of the city were garnished with all 
manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jas- 
per; the second, sapphire; the third, chalcedony; the fourth 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 4I 

an emerald ; the fifth, sardonix ;. the sixth, sardius ; the 
seventh, crysolite ; the eighth, beryl ; the ninth, a topaz ; 
the tenth, a chrysoprasus ; the eleventh, a jacinth ; the 
twelfth, an amethyst." 

" And the twelve gates were twelve pearls ; every several 
gate was of one pearl ; and the street of the city was of 
pure gold, as it were transparent glass." 

" And I saw no temple therein ; for the Lord God Al- 
mighty and the Lamb are the temple of it." 

"And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the 
moon to shine in it ; for the glory of God did lighten it, 
and the Lamb is the light thereof." 

" And the nations of those which are saved shall walk in 
the light of it ; and the kings of the earth do bring their 
glory and honor into it, and the gates shall not be shut at 
all by day; for there shall be no night there." 

" And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that 
defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh 
a lie ; but they which are written in the Lamb's book of 
life."* 



* Revelation, Chap. XXI. 

6 



42 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Borne to me as if coming from within that Temple-portal, 
were the inspiring strains of 

MUSIC, 

in commingled tones of instrument and voices. Now, with 
deep and stirring, fervent notes of praise; now in rapid 
gushing sounds of joy ; anon, with chime of heaven-ward- 
'luring melody. 

And I caught, and repeated, the following canticle : 

" Home of the lowly, and shrine of the just, 
Is Truth's blessed ark of heavenly trust ; 
Treasures exalted within it abound. 
Glorious trophies its altars surround !" 

" Pleasures endearing from Paradise brought ; 
Wonders eternal, by holiness wrought ; 
, Banner celestial — Faith's royal ensign — 

Over all waving high-standard divine ! 

" Votives of duty, oblations of love ; 
Tokens supernal, transporting above — 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 43 

Sword of the Spirit, and shield of the blest — 
With Lamb-bearing Cross for conquering crest!" 

" Diamonds and rubies, and emeralds green ; 
Roses and lilies, enclustered serene; 
Flowers unfading, that virtues unfold ; 
Jewels immortal, in caskets of gold!" 

" Manifold symbols, that upward allure ; 
Mystical emblems, that graces assure; 
All adorning these courts, so beautiful, fair, 
In glory sublime, surpassing compare!" 

" Home of the lowly, and shrine of the just. 
Is Truth's blessed ark of heavenly trust; 
Treasures exalted within it abound. 
Glorious trophies its altars surround !" 

Which was succeeded by this simple strain : 



44 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

"COME GREET THE GATE BEAUTIFUL.' 



" Come greet the Gate Beautiful ! 
Come, Mortals, come, 
In paths of the dutiful, 
Joyfully come ; 
'Neath Heaven's dome, 
To Angels' home, 
Pass through the Gate Beautiful!" 

" Voices happy are singing. 
Voices of love, 
Glad, exultantly ringing 
From saints above — » 
Come, Mortals, come, 
'Neath Heaven's dome. 
Bless Angels' home. 
Enshrining Gate Beautiful!" 

" To these courts so alluring. 
Evermore bright ; 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 45 

Elysium, assuring, 

Changeless delight ! 

Come, Mortals, come, 

'Neath Heaven's dome, 

Love angels' home, 
Within the Gate Beautiful!" 

" Where charms holy, unending. 
Souls rapt adorn — 
And Faith's sunbeams are blending 
Eternal morn ! 
Come, Mortals, come, 
'Neath Heaven's dome, 
Grace Angels' home 
Beyond the Gate Beautiful!" 

And there was borne to me from thither, too, the trumpet 
voice of 

ELOQUENCE, 

describing as though magic power, extolling with unkindled 
fervor each wondrous sign and token contained within the 



46 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Arch; and in rich persuasive tones, soliciting all to become 
the partakers of its offerings. 

And I listened to these, as among the Orator's impassion- 
ed words : 

" How beautiful in spirit are they who love the shrine of 
the Angel of Truth!" 

" For her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths 
are peace, and happy is he who findeth her." 

" She is more precious than rubies, and a^ll the things 
thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her." 

" A balm hath she for every wound, a comfort for every 
sorrow, blessings, and a crown of glory, for those who early 
seek her." 

"YOUNG MAN 

of the world — whom nature hath endued with her choicest 
gifts, which the advantages of art have strengthened and 
exalted; learned, generous, pure-minded, brave ! Whom 
none may see but to admire, and none may know but to 
esteem ! Yet with all the luxuriance of thy endowments, 
and the manifold graces of thy culture, hast thou, with the 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 47 

eagerness of devout contrition, secured every help-assuring 
token contained within the borders of Truth ? Art decked 
with the coronal of unfading roses ? Hast opened the gate 
of Repentance, and sought the sapphire resplendent of 
Faith ? Art clad in the armor invincible ? And bearest 
thou the buckler of Wisdom, the shield of Devotion, the 
sword of the Spirit, and the helmet, ever-shining, of Salva- 
tion ? In a word, art thou holy ? If so, pass on, and bright 
joys go with thee — pass on through this beautiful earthly 
portal ; for when the time comes for thy soul's rest, blessed 
angels are waiting to conduct thee to those celestial pearl- 
gates opening to the abodes of the New Jerusalem!" 

"YOUNG MAIDEN— 

fresh-blooming in thy virgin loveliness, as " the Creator's 
last, best gift to earth," — the finishing work of His hand ! 
A ministering being, sent to life, with every gift endued, 
each charm that allures to the noble and exalted ! Canst 
thou, even thou, beauteous paragon of the vestal virtues, 
canst thou rise with the lark in the morning, and soar to 



48 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

yon heavenly spheres, and join the seraph hosts, and be- 
come a cherubim of unending glory?" 

" Hast clung to the twig of Hope till it grew into the tree 
of Faith, and plucked thereof the delectable fruitage, Char- 
ity ? Hast thy guardian spirit led thee to the gate of Re- 
pentance, and shown thee the key of Prayer ? Hath he in 
the white raiment anointed thee ? And hath the wondrous 
presence of the Holy Dove been with thee ? Art assured 
through the bow of Promise, enlightened by the sun of 
Righteousness, and strengthened by the dews of Grace im- 
mutable ? Art crowned with the golden crown ? If so — 
and rich blessings befall thee — pass on, pass on through this 
sacred Arcade, triumphant ! For high amid the realms of 
the Empyrean, voices are singing — " How beautiful in spirit 
are they who love the shrine of the Angel of Truth!" 

"OLD MAN— 

wrinkled and bowed by time's griefs, disappointments and 
cares — for long hath been thy journeyings upon the restless 
waters of Life, while experience hath taught thee the frailty 
of ambition, the uncertainty of riches, and the numberless 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 49 

evils and follies of the world ! — Old Man, hast thou found 
the true solace to thy ills, the healing balm for the bared 
wounds of thy spirit, those sharp-piercing sorrows that have 
cleft to the foundations of thy soul ?" 

" Hast drank at the fountain of Justice ! Bearest upon 
thy brow the imperial diamond of Honesty? Hast plucked 
the olive of Peace, the lily of Humility, the laurel of Glory, 
and the amaranth, iris-hued, of Immortality ? Yea ! hast 
opened the gate of Repentance with the key of Prayer? 
And, whilst thou standest upon the foundation of Reason, 
dost embrace the pillars of Revelation, and beholdest 
thou above thee looming the lustrous crosier-sceptre, and 
jeweled diadem of Love ? If so, blessed and happy art 
thou ; for beautiful is holy age, the soft, lingering halo of 
the setting sun. Pass through the Arch ! And may the 
sweet spirits of Mercy attend thee, for shortly must thy 
frail, time-shattered bark have reached the broad ocean of 
Eternity; over which, mayest thou be wafted in winged 
chariots of light to that heavenly harbor-city, whose streets 
are gold, and its foundations, precious stones ; and whose 

twelve gates are of pearl, guarded by angels ; and which is 

7 



50 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

radiant with the benign effulgence of Him who therein 
dwelleth, as "The Great Immutable! The Ever Ancient, 
Ever New !" 

" LITTLE CHILD— 

prattling boy of innocence, as yet unstained by responsible 
evil, may thy mother bless, and thy father direct, and all 
truthful example guide thee ; for the impressions thou now 
receivest thou bearest onward to thy grave ; yea, even 
though thy earthly days shall have become as four-score 
years and ten !" 

" Little Child, in thy bark Tender-Promise, filled with 
flowers — fragrant, dawn-opening, roral-flushed flowers ! — 
fresh launched upon a stream the banks of which are reso- 
nant with the warbles of birds, and arrayed in all the charms 
of their Spring-time loveliness ; while the vernal light- 
beams so sweetly illumine the soft juvenance of thy purity 
— Hopeful, thoughtless, loving, gladsome-glowed, blossom- 
crowned ! thou art beginning the perilous Voyage of Life. 
And mayest thou, thus early, have been so refreshed by the 
dews of Grace celestial, and may thy guardian spirit have 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 5 1 

SO watched over and instructed, and the Sun of Righteous- 
ness have so enlightened, and the divine inspiration of the 
Heavenly Dove have so elevated and ennobled thee, that 
the morning of thy days may be guileless and holy ; and even 
thy youth shall be an ensample to show, — what is echoed, 
in glorious diapason— from the rapt children of the skies : 
" How beautiful in spirit are they who love the shrine of the 
Angel of Truth !" 

And I further beheld in the Vision, that within the Arch 
was reclining the gentle-souled Muse of 

POETRY. 

And I caught from her lips the following stanzas, on 
" THE BOWERS OF TRUTH." 



" Oh ! the bowers of Truth are beautiful bowers. 
Encircled with jewels, enclustered with flowers ! 
The bowers of Truth are heavenly shrine, 
And holy abode of the maid divine, — 
Whose heart is a heart, kind, gentle, and meek ; 



52 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Whose friends are the friends the innocent seek ; 

Whose joys are the joys of purity born ; 

Whose charms are the charms her bowers adorn 
For the bowers of Truth are glorious bowers, 
Encircled with jewels, enclustered with flowers !" 

" The bowers of Truth, illumined with Grace, 
Are blissful arbor, and sheltering place, 
Where sick and the poor And lasting repose. 
And stricken in heart, their sorrows disclose ; 
Humility's guests high honor receive. 
Each penitent soul, unending reprieve — 
From the maid therein, who favors doth send 
Through Faith, her sister, and Mercy, her friend : 
For the bowers of Truth are Charity's bowers, 
Encircled with jewels, enclustered with flowers !" 

" The bowers of Truth, prolific abound, 
In offerings meet to vestal renowned : 
Votives requital from nation and clime ; 
Numberless dowers through ages of time ; 



ARCH OF TRUTH. ^3 

Treasures uncounted, of costliest worth ; 
Tributes from Heaven,— and tributes from Earth- 
Tokens expressive of blessings revered, 
Affectionate boons from holy endeared : 
For the bowers of Truth are Oblation's bowers. 
Encircled with jewels, enclustered with flowers!" 

" The bowers of Truth, kind greeting assure. 
Friends of the virgin in prestige secure — 
Station adorning with glory serene — 
'Mong the bright seraphs of bountiful queen : 
Her tables bespread with esculents rare. 
Viands ambrosial surpassing compare — 
Etherial fruits, in clusters untold — 
Served by fair spirits from vessels of gold : 
For the bowers of Truth are festival bowers. 
Encircled with jewels, enclustered with flowers !" 

" The bowers of Truth give echoing strain 
To Musical-nymph, in joyful refrain : 
Of Orator bold, is maiden the theme, 



54 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 

High her enthroning and crowning supreme — 
While, Poet, aglow with lover's rapt praise, 
Hails the blest vision that inspires his lays ! 
Painting and Sculpture greet reverent trust — 
Muses, in chorus, her lauding august : 
For the bowers of Truth are marvellous bowers. 
Encircled with jewels, enclustered with flowers !" 

" The bowers of Truth queen-maiden display 
Charming with graces in lustrous array — 
Eyes ever beaming as stars of the night; 
Bearing-exalted of Cherub of Light : 
Immutable form, transporting above ; 
Face, beatific, — Evangel of Love ! 
Bright aureolas her forehead enfold — 
Flowing her tresses like flosses of gold : 
For the bowers of Truth are paramount bowers. 
Encircled with jewels, enclustered with flowers ?" 

" The bowers of Truth queen-maiden encheer 
Clad in apparel befitting her sphere — 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 55 

Luminous vesture of sacred design 
Woven and broidered by beings benign : 
Pearls empyreal, and emeralds green ; 
Diamonds and opals resplendent in sheen — 
Gemming her robings, her royalty thrones — 
Crowned with tiara of holiest stones : 
Ah ! the bowers of Truth are Archangels' bowers, 
Encircled with jewels, and Heavenly flowers !" 

And therein, too, were the gentle Muses of 
PAINTING AND SCULPTURE. 

employed in alluring man to the sacred Arch, teaching him 
to seek it, winning him to love it. 

And I saw that one was portraying the image of Truth 
as a beautiful virgin, draped in classic vestiture, and high- 
seated upon an orb ; her forehead zoned with a coronet of 
stars. 

While another represented her as in the midst of a 
grouping of marble, the center of a cluster of the Graces, 
and crowned with a diadem of glory. 



56 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

And therein, also, was the noble Spirit of 
ARCHITECTURE, 

engaged in tracing column, and arch, and screen, and nave, 
and corbel, and frieze, and dome, and spire, and fane, and 
cruciform ; all arranged as in plan of grand temple complet- 
ed ; each portion of which was designed as symbolical of 
Truth. 

And I further beheld therein, enscribed as upon a scroll, 
the names of thousands who in the ages past, have, in various 
form and degree, been Truth's champions, prophets, and 
exemplars ; and who have been willing, like a holy one of 
old, " to take pleasure in infirmities, and reproaches, and 
necessities, and persecutions, and distresses, for Christ's 
sake ;" and who have reaped "the fruits of the spirit, which 
is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, faith, meekness, temper- 
ance ; against which there is no law." 

And I saw, also, the names of many, who, during the 
centuries, have, through the imaginative arts, become 
Truth's proud illustrators and embellishers ; and who, in her 
cause, have with voice, and pen, and pencil, and lyre, and 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 57 

graver, transmitted through time their marvellous efforts of 
holy renown. 

And therein, too, was all true knowledge and skill, inven- 
tion and discovery, and each useful avocation and calling of 

man ; purified and regenerated, and made to become the in- 
struments and guardians of Truth. 

When again from the- Poet came the following : 

"SEEKING THE BEAUTIFUL! SEEKING THE TRUE!" 



" Seeking the beautiful ! seeking the true ! 
'Tis e'er good to behold in cluster arrayed 
The bold chivalrous youth, and the gentle fair maid, 
Blithe innocent childhood, grave matron and sire. 
Enrobed with the vestments of virtue's attire ; 
From every vocation and station secure. 
Earth's lovely and gifted, brave-hearted and pure, 
Seeking the beautiful ! seeking the true !" 

" Seeking the beautiful ! seeking the true ! 

'Tis sad to encounter those Heaven hath blest 
8 



5^ ARCH OF TRUTH. 

In gifts high exalted, and richly imprest 
With each fond emotion of duty and love — 
Warm sympathies ardent, alluring above — 
Become willful estrayed from purity's trust. 
Through perversity, pride, indifference, lust ; 
Hating the beautiful ! hating the true !" 

" Seeking the beautiful ! seeking the true ! 
The Muse's kind purpose is here to portray 
To careless, unthinking. Faith's simple, pure way 
Of avoiding the ills encompassing life — 
Those darksome allurements to error and strife — 
And so paint the virtues and graces serene 
That every heart noble may proudly be seen 
Loving the beautiful ! loving the true !" 

And then, for a moment, the structure became invisible, 
and I thus was led to meditate: "Was that," thought I "a 
vision of the Arch of Truth ? — the glorious outer-portal 
assuring an entrance to the blessed abodes of Immortality ! 
In all its surroundings, so attractive, so elevating, so para- 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 59 

mount ! Adorned with with so much to please the eye ; to 
warm the heart, to enlarge the mind, and to exalt and purify 
the soul ! Why is it then, that man, with all this to inspire 
his better nature, with this much to allure his truest, loftiest 
aims, will so often follow in the wayward paths of evil, run 
the dark debasing road conducting to the pitfalls of the 
ignoble?" 

To which came in answer : " His will has become de- 
praved ; his conscience seared and blighted ; his reason is 
perverted ; his desires and affections, estrayed from faith 
and virtue, are controlled by wanton passions ; Ignorance 
boldly stalketh within the hallowed spheres of Knowledge ; 
on Presumption is conferred the victor's blooming wreath, 
and laurelled crown of Honor : Selfishness, Covetousness, 
and Ambition, are usurping the beautiful way which leads 
to the courts of the Temple of Wisdom ! Thus it is, why 
the world is so filled with error, overgrown with folly !" 

And then, from the distance were borne to me these 
words, addressed to 



6o ARCH OF TRUTH. 

"CHARITY." 



" Joys, bright, of the morning, and charms of the evening, 

Their virtues commingle in placid array ; 
Our thoughts from past sorrows a moment relieving — 

We to Charity sing, encomium, lay ! 
Fair vestal immortal, so sweetly illuming 

Life's darksome recesses with heavenly light ; 
Of beauty supernal, perennial blooming, 

To thee, holy virgin, we praises indite ! 
Beholding exultant, thy power alluring. 

That doth on deserving best mercies bestow ; 
Earth's seeming forsaken, through promise assuring, 

Beatical halo, encircling thy brow ! 
Sad, friendless, and lonely, with blessings encheering. 

And fearless down-trodden, of age, and of youth ; 
Beneficent-hearted through kindness endearing, 

Faith's gentle-eyed daughter, mild sister of Truth ! 
Each soul meet repentant, in duty upholding. 

His pathway bestrewing with roses of love — 
Ethereal graces and virtues unfolding. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 6l 

Benignly transmitted from seraphs above ! 
Hope, clear, to despondent and timorous, showing. 

The silver-bright lining 'neath somberest cloud — 
On holy devoted, prime honors bestowing. 

Requitals unceasing from Heaven endowed ! 
Life's humblest and greatest, both, warmly caressing, 

As sunshine and shower thy offerings fall ; 
The friend and the stranger impartially blessing — 

For true Charity's heart, is open to all! 
Yea ! beauteous spirit, at even and morning. 

Thy charms ever gracious, we fondly enshrine ; 
Those gifts so transcendent thy presence adorning, 

With angels enthrone thee, celestial, divine!" 



Again, the vision returned. And I now saw assembled 
before me a vast concourse of men and women who had 
come to gaze upon the Arch of Truth. Some paused only 
to admire, while others passed by with seeming indifference. 
They had been deeper interested in the frail but gorgeous 
palace of Ambition, standing with beguiling pomp upon the 



62 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

shore of the waters of Life ; more charmed by the tottering 
idol Riches, high-inshrined within the tower of Gold ; or 
had preferred, rather, the temple of Delusion, or the 
bowers of Ease, or the castle of Indolence; or mayhap, 
had inclined to the enchanting gardens of Pleasure, so re- 
dolent with the fumes of flowers, and joyous with melody ! 
Still, a few there were, who lingered, and who approached 
the portalway, with love. 

Yet among" that lowly few, was Life's every season and 
condition. Youth, in its spring-tide blooming freshness ; 
Manhood, in its boasted strength ; and feeble, tottering 
Age. The once worldly-wise and mighty, now arrayed with 
gentle meekness, and the simple-minded, in all the fervor of 
their sincerity. The rich, with their opened stores of golden 
blessings, and the poor wayfarer with his all, his humble 
faith. Woman, in her vestal loveliness, and the young man 
from amid the glittering vanities of the world. 

The gentle, the weak, and the powerful. Some, I saw, 
had come clad in the sable garb of sorrow. Some, as if 
they were with their bridal robes arrayed. Many came 
stricken by sickness or misfortune, and others proudly 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 63 

Stalked along erect, rich aglow with manly health and 
strength, while each was seeking the glorious shrine of 
heavenly wisdom, through the beautiful gateway of Truth. 

And then, from the voice of the Poet, came these words : 
"THE CROWN OF MANHOOD." 



" The Crown of Manhood is a noble crown, 
Whether of humble or lofty renown ! 
And he it adorns with worthiest grace 
Who bravely hath sought the good of his race. 
Whether he princes or peasantry greet ; 
Whether he triumph, or meet with defeat ; 
Whether him riches or poverty cheer — 
A man is a king ! exalted his sphere — 
If true to himself and honor sublime. 
And the high duties encompassing Time." 

" Full-teeming is earth with what man hath done. 
Labors accomplished, and victories won. 
In each daily walk and calling of life ; 



64 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Often encoupled with sorrow and strife — 
Yet ever ardent, devoted, and true, 
Strong and intrepid his work to pursue." 

" The World all around his handiwork shows. 
Dank wilderness made to blossom as rose ; 
Cities exultant in pomp and display ; 
Empires existant, or passed to decay ; 
Power and riches, and glory and fame, 
Everywhere witness the stamp of his name ! 
But chiefly through mind, and graces of heart, 
Doth man, immortal, high manhood impart — 
Virtue, and wisdom, and honor, and worth. 
Brightest his labors illumine the earth; 
Lustrous adorning humanity grand. 
Cheering all peoples, and blessing each land." 

" Truth is proclaiming what man ought to do ; 
In this latter age what motives to woo ; 
Surrounded by doubts, new chaos of things, 
Perplexities dire, with ©minous wings ; 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 65 

Incertitude dark, of this and of that — 

Confusing the world, true Faith to combat ; 

On what lived and breathed precedent the morn, 

Who peopled the earth, ere Adam was born ! 

Nor human, nor beast, incongruous shape 

Of mocking Monkey, or insensate Ape ! 

Or farther back still, in aeons of Race, 

Embryo Mortal, monadic to trace. — 

Of pre-existence we little may know, 

But of the future, we knowledge should show ; 

As present evolved true manhood is trust, 

Wiser to be made, and daily more just." 

" Then arouse ye all, at duty's command, 
Firmly united in glorious band. 
Ye sons of mankind, ye noble and brave ; 
Arise in strong might, your soul-prestige save ! 
Faith's standard divine, — all-conquering shield, 
O'er nations of earth triumphantly wield ; 
Guide the world onward to virtue and love, 
Charity, honor, and wisdom above ; 
9 



66 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

This make your guerdon and goal of renown — 
Manhood immortal, — Stand up for your Crown !" 

And then followed these lines, on 

" THE SHRINE OF WOMANHOOD." 



" Blest is the Poet with honor supreme 
In his rapt calling, when Woman's his theme ! 
Her charms to number, and virtues to tell, 
And proudly exalt with angels to dwell, 
For where'er away the Poet may rove 
He, true to himself, fair Woman doth love ! 
Glad husbanding now, his offering lays, 
He here would essay, fair Woman to praise. 
Those graces serene adorning her life 
As mother, daughter, kind sister and wife ; 
Or when she freely through faith doth extend 
Her worthiest trust to true-hearted friend." 

" Woman devoted, may you ever be 
Proud of your mission as Saint Charity ! 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 67 

Each soul unfriended encourage and bless, 

Through cheerfulness bright and tender caress ; 

The suffering greet, for afflicted feel ; 

Fervently praying, with reverent zeal. 

That beings human, down-trodden and sad. 

May be uplifted, and the world made glad. — 

For earth's dark ones oft need but heartfelt word, 

Framing them better, more true to their Lord ! 

To gentleness mild be firmly allied, 

Of heavenly Grace, the beautiful guide — 

Alway alluring to the pure and bright. 

Guilelessly holy like Angel of Light ! 

With glory enshrined for blessed deeds done 

To father and brother, and husband and son. 

And for each soul-grief thou hast brought sweet cheer 

Through loving-kindness, and with smile and tear." 

And I still further beheld, amid the Vision, that not only 
did that Arch-temple contain the blessed shrine of the 
adolescent, and the olden, but that little children, also, in 
the roral dawn of their innocence, were being borne adown 



6S ARCH OF TRUTH. 

the waters of Life to the haven of heavenly Truth ; there to 
receive from hands anointed, sign-manual, of Grace through 
the Atonement. 

When again from the Muse came the following, on 
"THE HOURS OF CHILDHOOD." 



" Oh ! the hours of Childhood, how gleeful are they, 
Bright dawning of morning to beautiful day ! 
So gentle-souled, simple, brave, generous, pure. 
Endued with those graces that upward allure, 
When life's fancies are facts, its images things. 
And its loftiest aim, is pleasure it brings ; 
When heart is expressive, warm, tender, sincere, 
Transported the present, futurity dear ; 
When friends that first love us we merrily greet, 
And all is exultant, munificent, sweet, 
Frank, open, confiding, not knowing distrust, 
Each other believing as honest and just — 
Of moments unconscious, we heed not the days, 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 69 

So boundless and thoughtless are juvenile ways! 

Joys precious, departed, grow cherished anew, 

When former times hallowed come seeking review ; 

With hope afresh kindled, faith, charity, truth. 

Glad happytide seasons of frolicksome youth ! 

And we live as of old, delighted, caressed, 

Enrapt by emotions, unending, imprest 

On gentle souls simple, brave, generous, pure, 

Endued with those graces that upward did 'lure 

Our fleet hours of Childhood, — for gleeful were they, — 

Bright dawning of morning to beautiful day!" 

And now as I looked toward the mystical Temple-struc- 
ture, I seemed to see therein a man of silvery locks, who 
was drinking at the fountain of Justice. Another appeared 
to grasp the diamond of Honesty. A maiden was com- 
muning with the angels of Mercy. One plucked the white 
rose of Innocence, or admired the ruby of Charity; while 
another was adorned with the coronal of the virtues, or was 
gazing upward toward the jeweled diadem of Love. 



70 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Came then upon those waters clear which flowed to shrine 

of Truth, 
Within Faith's noble safety-bark, a brave and stalwart 

Youth, 
Whose form erect, intrepid port, and open-beaming face. 
Disclosed surpassing excellence endued with every grace ; 
Sweet gentleness, and tenderness, that kindly heart did 

show. 
Heroic might and energy enthroned upon his brow — 
Exalted mind by wisdom pure illumined from on high. 
The charm of lofty rectitude enkindled in his eye ; 
When sailing thus undauntedly adown life's troubled stream 
To hail the sun of Righteousness, which shone with light 

supreme — 
O'er all those blooms, and precious stones, and treasures 

rare untold, 
That 'domed the structure paramount, whereon was crown 

of gold. 

Fleet by his side, another skiff, of graceful sweep and 
build. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 7I 

Came waft upon the crested waves as if by zephyrs willed ; 
And in it bold, a Maiden stood, its ever-faithful guide 
To Temple-haven glorious, 'mid ebb and flowing tide ; — 
In soul-expression beautiful, mild guilelessness serene, 
A seeming spirit vestal come saluting Angel queen ! 
For nature boon with choicest gifts her amply had endowed, 
Each grace revealed as paragon through daily deeds avowed: 
Mind crowned supreme from knowledge font, enriching all 

around ; 
Warm heart that teemed exuberant in virtues rarest found ; 
Soft voice attuned like nightingale, to plaintive accents 

sweet ; 
Spright lithesome glide of faerie-nymph on downy flitting 

feet — 
Exultant free as gleeful lark, caroling matin cheer ; 
Eye tender-glowed of meek gazelle, suffused with holy tear. 
Thus bright displayed, that gentle Maid, did down those 

waters float, 
With wondrous skill right onward steered her faith-propell- 
ing boat, 



72 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

To greet the shrine ineffable, and seek, with gallant Youth, 
Each token blest, perennial, bedecking Arch of Truth. 

A stillness rapt came o'er the scene, like hush of angels' 
tread 

Among the spheres etherial on hallowed mission sped! 

When that twain, through purpose strong, and never-tiring 
soul. 

Had made secure hope's highest aim, and reached their 
harbor goal ; 

With trust devout, unfearing heart, contrition's guided hand. 

Wide open laid Repentance-gate, at Key of Prayer's com- 
mand ; 

Were led to Grace-assuring font, by him in robes of white ; 

Before oblation's altar paused to view the Book of Light ; 

And standing on unfailing rock of Inspiration's base. 

O'er Justice — noble fountain-spring — did Mercy kind em- 
brace ; 

From urn of Sacred Symbols sought to inward life renew. 

Faith's royal emblem hailing proud — bright sapphire-sheen- 
of-blue. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 73 

The Youth glad took the opal flamed,, and dappled agate 

mossed. 
With topaz yellow, ruby red, and diamond, splendent 

glossed, — 
Rich garnet glint, and crysolite, carbuncle dark imprest, 
Carnelian flush, and coralloid of crimson-tinted crest — 
Mild azure-glimmering turquoise, green emerald, and beryl, 
And straight-empurpled amethyst, and precious holy pearl. 
And setting them in crown of gold, it thus enjeweled laid 
Upon the forehead, pure, serene, of that fresh-blooming 

Maid ; 
While on her bosom meekly beamed, rose white and lily 

fair. 
True heart within entyping, of worth beyond compare. 
In circlet 'round his own clear brow, exultant he entwined 
Effulgent gems, and blossoms sweet, felicitous, combined 
In proud enwoven coronal, a grand commingled zone 
Of every flower beautiful, with every precious stone. 

Amid Truth's temple, both obtained, through gratefulness 

endeared, 
10 



74 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

The nectared balms and esculents those sacred courts en- 
cheered ; 

Faith's wondrous tree divinely 'domed with healing leaves 
it bore, 

And Charity's immortal fruit, extolling more and more ! 

The Maiden graced the chaplet crown of lovely roses 
wrought, 

Enwreathen garland, floral fumed, with kindled ardor 
sought ; 

Salvation's helmet made the Youth his all-subduing might. 

By Wisdom's buckler, guarded strong, and breast-plate 
shining bright ; 

About him holy armor clad, high flaming sword did wield. 

And with undaunted soul elate, — Devotion's crested shield ! 

Unto the Maid the casket gave of jewels rare untold, 

She armlet lustered, clasping firm, and holding chain of gold. 

They then with those in choral-group, did minstrel voices 

raise. 
And made that blissful scene resound with these meet 

words of praise : 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 75 

" x\ll hail ! with strength, to braving ones 
Loving the earthly pure ; 

All hail ! with faith, to saving-ones 
Who heavenward allure ! 

All hail, to all ! from sea and land 
Rolls upward to the sky ! 

All hail, to all ! through anthem grand- 
Respond the hosts on high !" 

" Ye meek who tread earth's paths with love 

And bless each passing hour. 
Unending grace have sought above 

As true contrition's dower ; 
To needy given arm of trust, 

To hungry daily food ; 
For every deed and purpose just, 

Heroical have stood : 
To you we sing in accents clear 

And voices proud laudate. 
Rapt words that humble souls encheer 

With hallowed joy elate :" 



76 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

" All hail ! with peace, to holy-ones 

Unscathed by ill and strife ; 
All hail ! with bliss, to lowly ones 

Anointed saints in life ! 
All hail, to all ! from sea and land 

Rolls upward to the sky ; 
All hail, to all ! through anthem grand — 

Respond the hosts on high !" 

Grave Revelation's pillars now did Youth and Maid em- 
brace : 

And standing with true hearts renewed beneath the dews of 
Grace — 

Effulgent bow of Promise cheered, assuring peace above. 

And soul-enkindling blessings sought from silver-plumaged 
Dove. 

Noble Cross-emblazoned banner, enshrined through tri- 
umphs won. 

High-bore amid the light supreme of Heaven's cloudless 
sun ! 

Fair Angel-queen immutable, enthroned on starry seat. 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 77 

Devoutly paused in reverence on bended-knee to greet : 

With souls aglow, those words beheld, that did in type de- 
fine 

Yon structure-pile, as holy Church, Faith's special gate di- 
vine. 

Which to celestial City leads, whose streets are shining gold. 

Upon ageless-wrought foundations, of precious stones un- 
told ; 

And where with boundless joy serene, and never-ending 
youth, 

They dwell who have blest wisdom found within the Arch 
OF Truth. 

Then circling saints their harps attuned, and sang with ac- 
cents clear. 
This Canticle, in earnest tone, and words of greeting cheer : 

" In welcome ! welcome ! welcome ! 
We raise exultant song ; 
With voices still of welcome 
We joyful strain prolong : 



78 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

To you who high anointed 
Come to this refuge blest — 

Long ages 'gone appointed — 
As home of sacred rest." 

"With sin and sorrow bleeding 
You sought Truth's holy shrine, 

Through faith devout succeeding 
Safe reached the ark divine ; — 

Hope's verdant paths alluring 
In lowliness did tread ; 

With manna Grace assuring 
Been at these altars fed : 

May peacefulness eternal 

Your hearts renewed enstore, 

Beatitude, supernal — 
Exalting more and more ! 

And, yet, enrobed with glory. 
Forget not whence you trod ; 

Cross-wounds, and thorn-prints gory- 
Oblations are to God !" 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 79 

" In Welcome ! Welcome ! Welcome ! 

We raise exultant song ; 
With voices still of welcome 

We joyful strain prolong: 
To you who high anointed 

Came to this refuge blest — 
Long ages 'gone appointed 

As home of sacred rest. 

To WHICH, in tones of gratitude from hearts devoutly fond, 
Was wafted toward the firmament, this deeply felt respond : 

"We've come ! We've come! bright spirits meeting; 
In Mercy's courts, Archangels' greeting ; 
Hosanna anthems loud repeating : 
We've come! We've come ! 
Exultant, come!" 

" We've come! We've come ! to home alluring, 
Where pure in heart find grace assuring, 
Through trust, devout, and love, enduring : 
We've come ! We've come ! 
Devoted, come ! 



8o ARCH OF TRUTH. 

" We've come ! We've come ! thanks warm expressing, 
For Heaven's sweet, eternal blessing, 
Our souls contrite, with Faith impressing ; 
We've come ! AVe've come ! 
Unending, come !" 

Resplendent then shone Arch of Truth like cope of Sum- 
mer's night 
When starry hosts their rays transfuse in intermingled light ! 
For at Espousal altar-shrine, that youthful twain did kneel. 
And one whose calling high it was the nuptial bond to seal, 
Through words of potent covenant, them made as man and 

wife; 
In holy wedlock, firm conjoined, to tread the ways of life. 
A circlet, golden, 'domed the hand of that now happy bride. 
Of faithful heart symbolical, should weal or wo betide ; 
While he who gave the precious pledge in emblem thus did 

show 
His never-ending constancy betrothed with solemn vow — 
Love's mystic chain hymeneal, about them both entwined, 
Outshining princely diadem of jewels rare combined ! 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 8l 

Loud from amid enclustered throng arose transportive 

strain 
Borne far upon resounding breeze in gladsome-toned refrain, 

As signal-chime of gala- day within those courts serene, 
Felicitous pair to honor who graced the marriage scene. 
Came olden friends of lovely Truth her loyal guests to greet ; 
Jubilant guileless youthfultide sang choral welcome sweet : 
Flowers beautiful richer bloomed, troth-plighted souls to 

bless — 
Upon them angels holy smiled, and them did soft caress : 
Nature proud, in festival robes, displayed approving cheer, 
While thither bore Earth's noblest ones, bridal offerings 

dear ! 
Radiant gleamed the balmy air with azure-glow, and gold. 
Red, silver, green, and purple hue, and iris rays, untold ; 
Aroma- fumes by zephyrs waft, redolence fresh did bring. 
Inspiring waters ceaseless flowed from fonts of crystal- 
spring ! 
Birds in glorious carnival, superbly plumaged, clad. 
Exultant made the welkin sound with warbles sweet and 

glad: 
II 



82 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Ambrosial fruits more luscious teemed, and gems with sheen 

of light ; 
Every oblation-token loomed in fadeless splendor bright — 
Endued as by supernal charms, all these appeared revealed, 
Each boon those lofty courts bedecked with Grace divine 

ensealed : 
When coping song of nightingale and tuneful lark on high, 
Were heard enraptured symphonies from minstrels of the 

sky! 
Harmonic-hosts empyreal, in grand encircled choir, 
According soft cherubic strain with harp and holy lyre : 
And when surpassing fairest blooms, which Nature kind had 

brought, 
And precious stones, the costliest, 'bout Temple-pile in- 
wrought — 
Immortal wreaths and garlands showed that did Archangels 

'dorn ; 
With peerless jeweled-tiaras by Seraph princes borne ! 

The banquet spread commemorant, was royal feast, replete 
In choicest wines delectable, and hallowed dainties meet, 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 83 

Come from those realms elysian where sacred fruits abound, 
Fond served by spirits bountiful in starry circlets crowned ! 
Emblazoned vessels sumptuous with pearls and rubies 

beamed ; 
Effulgent crested chalices of diamond crystal gleamed ! 
Delicate fabrics luculent in crimson light and gold, 
O'er gem-enameled tables drooped in lustrous broidered 

fold ; 
Festoon and floral coronal disclosed unfading bloom — 
Celestial rays perennial did blissful scene illume ! 

When the guests were there assembled, in clusters proud 
arrayed, 

Each noble form, exalted shone, through holy charms dis- 
played ! 

Flamed Cherubim and Seraphim on downy pinions fleet ; 

Supremest saints immutable, with faces rapt and sweet ; 

From highest spheres ethereal — in robes of shining light — 

And radiant crowns of glory ; — came greeting festal-rite ! 

While queen transcendent, Truth-serene, 'neath Heaven's 
boundless zone. 



84 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

Adorning Mercy's vestiture on Love's eternal throne — 
O'er regale august presided, with mild benignant grace, 
And every heart did royally with angel's food solace. 

Then rose in happy choral-strain, from that exultant throng, 
These glowing words of symphony, and nuptial greeting, 
song : — 

" Our hearts true joy expressing, 
We sing a roundelay — 
Fair Bride, and Bridegroom, blessing — 
On their espousal day !" 

" Hope's pathway bright alluring 
With flowers fresh would strew. 
While they, through trust assuring, 
Are tender, kind and true." 

" May both, as now, each greeting, 
With pure affection's smile — 
Be ever in their meeting 

Like souls who know no guile !" 



ARCH OF TRUTH. 85 

" Secure in wedded duty 
Breast every ill of life, 
Bedecked by love's sweet beauty — 
Devoted man and wife !" 

" For with brave purpose holy 
They came in flush of youth, 
Through faith devout and lowly — 
Did seek the ways of Truth." 

All Nature now was hushed with awe, and every voice 

was stilled ! 
Transplendent showed the firmament with wondrous hopes 

fulfilled ! 
When ushered by angelic hosts that Temple high did rise 
Upborne upon the breath of night to realms amid the skies! 
Yet, like celestial essence gone, it left behind a glow 
Enriching each devoted heart of mortal here below ; 
And Faith's exalted promise gave of ever-living youth 
Reserved for all who Grace have found within the Arch of 

Truth. 



86 ARCH OF TRUTH. 

After the Vision had again departed, our Author found 
himself still reclining under the far-spread branches of the 
ancient Oak, while the lovely eventide became absorbed 
into the deep hush of night ; when, through imagination, he 
heard the old tree speaking as with the tongue of Mortal, 
and in tones of wondrous melody, murmuring forth its ever- 
hallowed recollections, which were further revealed to him 
during often sojourns beneath its time-honored shadows. 

But now the gentle sleep- faeries beckoned to a more con- 
genial repose within the walls of that near-by venerable 
Manse ; yet, before leaving, amid the soft stillness of the 
starlight, (like angel visitors) he seemed to see in pleasant 
concourse assembled, the several readers of this little book ; 
many of whose names the tender hand of friendship had 
inscribed upon the tablets of his heart-memories as among 
his sweetest and dearest associations, illumined with per- 
petual sunbeams, and fragrant as the flowers of Paradise ; 
and to each, and all of whom, he would herewith convey 
the benison of an affectionate " Fare-ye-well." 




DDITIONAL EOEMS. 



NOTE. 

The Author would state, at the outset, that he makes no pretensions 
to the honorable name of Poet, Many of the within effusions were 
prepared for local and temporary purposes, and were, at the best, con- 
sidered as simple " mock-jewels," which never expected to find their 
present setting. While others were designed for delivery, and were so 
used on various occasions. Indeed, the life-surroundings and aspirations 
of the author have been such, as have led him almost exclusively to pay 
his devotions at the shrine of the vestal, Eloquence, to the neglect — it 
may be — of the charms of her more coy, though, haply, lovelier sister, 
Poesy. 



THE TRUE BLESSINGS OF LIFE.* 



tN THE Spring of glad youth, when sorrows are fleet 
And unknown is vocation, or care ; 
When affections first bud, and sympathies meet ; 

And all is holy, — and pure, — and fair ! — 
One tokens may gather, for future delight, 

Heart-emotions, exalted and true ; 
To cheer and ennoble with memories bright, 
When the Winter of age doth ensue. 

Life's jewels most precious, its silver and gold. 
Its flowers fresh-blooming of happiest days ; 

Its fountains unceasing, its treasures untold — 

Are simple Childhood's sweet, innocent ways. 

We proud have made knowledge Life's purpose and aim, 

Did power and riches possess ; 
Gained honors bright guerdon, or chaplet of fame, 



* The writer's first effort at rhyming. 



94 POEMS. 

In meed for heroic success — 
In grave councils of State, with duteous trust 

Sought honesty's laws to defend ; 
Ardent champions been in walks of the just, 

Morality's cause to extend; 
Or 'mid Poet's high sphere, did bravely aspire 

For unfading laureate crown ; 
Through the plastical arts, or musical lyre. 

Attained to exalted renown : 
Yet, whatever we are — whatever our place — 

Whatever achievements have won ; 
Whether paths of wisdom, or venturous race, 

We valiant, as victors have run ! 
Still, amid, oftentime, trouble-wrought feelings, 

And intervals shaded with gloom. 
One exultant has had — blissful revealings — 

That moments desponding illume ; 
When his reveries turned to each youthful scene 

So blest with exuberant cheer ; 
'When his earlytide thoughts — through fancy, serene — 

Did every surrounding endear. 



POEMS. QH 

Seasons happy, agone— fresh, beautiful, pure ! 
Holy emotions, in memory shrined ; 

With joyfulness teeming, dark sorrows they cure- 
Crowning with gladness, disconsolate mind. 

Such ever are then Life's sweetest of blessings, 

An innocent childhood, and blithesome old age ; 
Genial humanity, loving caressings, 

Youth's noble warm-heartedness crowning the Sage — 
And ever are such, its fondest emotions, 

Faith, purity, mercy, and holiness done ; 
Honesty, charity, loyal devotions— 

Enclustering virtues, commingled in one. 
And ever are such, its proudest of stations, 

A placid contentment, hospitable hearth, 
'Domed with philanthropy. Christian oblations, 

Souls justly exultant through generous worth — 
And ever are such, its choicest of pleasures. 

Immutable trust, and valorous duty ; 
Virtue unsullied, — and, priceless of treasures — 

Ensamples endearing, cycled with beauty — 



g6 POEMS. 

Home-blooming affections — father and mother — 

Felicity's tokens bedropped from above ; 
And those beautiful words, — sister and brother — 

Words beautiful ever, — enkindled with love ! 
Over-circling them all, with riches untold, 

Riches, noble, untold, that honor impart; 
Earth's caskets of jewels, and silver and gold. 

Gold, silver and jewels, to dutiful heart — 
Is circle domestic, of husband and wife, 

With frolicksome children encheering the hours; 
Such ever are blessings, supremest in life — 

Its crown of true glory circled with flowers. 



DEEDS OF KINDNESS CROWN THEMSELVES. 




^ 



N life's course, you oft will view 
Gentle Mercy, decked with bays ; 
And that acts of kindness true — 
Redound to their doer's praise. 

Once there lived an orphan lad. 

Friendless, poor, obscure in name- 
Tattered garments round him clad 

Cov'ring sparse his wasted frame ; 
He of comforts naught had known 

In his waif-like past career. 
Darksome pathways, treading lone, 

Without home nor kindred cheer : 
Yet his heart, like vernal plant, 

Tender was and guileless sweet, 
While boon heaven did him grant 

Face of beauty fair to greet. 



13 



98 POEMS. 

And e'er gracious, true, and kind, 

Gave that nameless, houseless boy 
Glowing impulse — soaring mind — 

Genius bright, with its pure joy. 
And did one through faith extend 

Helping good in time of need. 
Stand for him unfailing friend, 

Heaven just, high crowned that deed ! 
Mercy, speeding in life's van 

Heard his deep-felt plaintive sigh ; 
Saw his form, pale, weak, and wan, 

Saw spright glow in his dark eye ; 
Took his little hand so cold, 

Listed to his grief-lorn tale. 
Him safe led to refuge fold 

In a peaceful sylvan vale ; 
Where he knowledge true was taught, 

Virtue pure, and holy ways ; 
And all around in him wrought 

Purpose strong for future days ; 
His mind noble, did expand. 



POEMS. 99 

Made him valiant, wise, and great ; 
Made him skilled in action grand — 

'Lured to triumph-deeds elate ! 
When in time, his growing fame 

Spread o'er nation far and wide, 
And his now familiar name 

Did at altars many bide ; 
Crowning youth, encheering eld. 

Sending blessings rare o'er earth — 

Through exalted gifts impelled, 
And unsullied hero-worth ! 

Yet, that lad did ne'er forget 

In his manhood's proud career, 
Friends who once his course had set. 

And his upward path encheer ; 
And when high with glory crowned, 

And by fortune's smile caressed, 
Lauded 'midst sure fame renowned. 

Those who erst his childhood blest. 



THE STANDARD OF THE BRAVE. 




'f^xHETHER his sphere or calling 

Bring high or humble fame, 
Censure or praise, befalling — 

To him, 'tis e'er the same — 
Who regards not toil, nor harm, 

A sacred cause to save, 
Wielding with undaunted arm 

The Standard of the Brave ! 

Breasting each dark ill of life 

With trustfulness and cheer ; 
Borne amid the scenes of strife 

Not knowing rest, nor fear — 
Moves the man, pure, true and bold. 

Who would forever wave 
And in triumph proud uphold 

The Standard of the Brave ! 



POEMS. loi 

A hero-king, royal crowned 

With attributes sublime ; 
'Mong immortals grave, renowned. 

The noblest son of Time — 
Is he, who doth longest dare, 

'Neath heaven's architrave — 
Fearlessly to onward bear 

The Standard of the Brave ! 

On Truth's lofty Throne of State 

Invincible, through worth ; 
Chief, amid supremest great — 

Transcendent form on earth : 
Reigns the moral sovereign strong 

Who right secure to save, 
Shows against life's every wrong 

The Standard of the Brave' 



PATRIOTIC POEMS. 



OUR STARRY FLAG.* 



to THESE dear neighbor-friends, I would in kindness say, 
We are proud to bid you a welcome true to-day ! 
And while your souls respond, concordant with us here, 
I further wish extend, — of happy future cheer ! 
Convened, as we are now, 'tis noble, just, and meet, 
That with hearts devoted, we each the other greet ; 
And in these solemn times, when loyalty is meed, 
Columbia's lovers all, her friends should be indeed ; 
Her banner-shield unfurl, assuring vows renew, 
And show through many acts that they to her are true. 
Now what place more fitting in this rich-favored land. 
To hoist our starry-flag, than here whereon we stand ? 
This graceful hillside sweet of nature's best design, 



* Lines read on the occasion of hoisting the National Banner, near the author's 
home, May, iS6i. 



POEMS. IO-? 



With tokens sacred crowned, like Faith's requital-shrine ; 
Dear old homes before us, in holytide delight — 
E'er effulgent teeming with recollections bright! 
All that freemen live for, for which they e'en would die, 
Kindred, hearthside, country, and church-spire pointing 
high; 

Scenes, which we long have prized, and still rejoice to see. 
Where stood the ancient fort, and stands the Council-tree ! 
Glad dales, and uplands eld, this vernal landscape 'dorn. 
And with orisons blest greet each incoming morn ! 
Shrines we laud and cherish, devoutly more and more, 
The same our grand-sires loved in hallowed days of yore ; 
Tombs of daring true-men, unfearing, firm and strong, 
Who life and fortune gave to quell oppression's wrong; 
For 'mid yon valley fair, sojourneyed,— we've been told,— 
Our nation's stalwart ones, in trying times of old. 
With enkindled purpose, and with bold souls aglow, 
To meet Brittania's Hosts, our then invading foe. 
And we are hither come, as earnest scions pure 
Of our country-mother,— to pledge our hearts secure,— 
With her to live, or die, by her to stand, or fall,— 



I04 POEMS. 

Fearless, changeless, ever, — devoted, one and all ! 
Her sacred " Stripes and Stars," we now have raised above, 
Bright encheering emblems of never-fading love — 
Those five-and-thirty stars in constellation grand, 
'Mid thirteen symbol-stripes, high-floating o'er the land ! 
And palsied be the arm that would a stripe deface, 
Or that would ruthless dare to single star displace ; 
And palsied be the hand, that wanton, doth eschew 
That uplifted standard, so red, and white, and blue ! 
And may best glory crown each grand ennobled Brave, 
Who 'neath its waving folds, seeks triumph, or his grave : 
Undaunted speeding forth, persistent foe to meet — 
That flag, if needs must be, to make his winding-sheet ; 
Or rapt through loyal pride, — escutcheon broad unfurled, — 
High, exhilerant bears, around the circled world ; 
Around the circled world, with proud efl"ulgent crest, 
Emboldened raised aloft, not knowing East, nor West ; 
Nor knowing North, nor South — within unbounded field — 
Save, as unbroken parts, of one transcendent shield ! 
Around the circled world, exultant to unfold — 
That soaring-eagle crest on field of blue and gold ! 



POEMS. 105 

And now, one welcome more, to these kind gentle-folk, 
Our friends and neighbors true of dear Old Schaghti- 

coke; 
While we all united, jubilant strain would sing, 
And make these hills around, with echoes loyal, ring : 

May yonder Banner floating high with grandeur, state and 

pride. 
Ever, o'er Columbia wave, in triumph far and wide ! 
O'er mountain, hil'l, and smiling dale, and lake and river 

shore, 
And simple cot, and lofty dome, exultant more and more! 
From broad ocean, back to ocean; from Maine, to Golden 

Gate ; 
O'er fifty States united firm in endless-loving fate ; 
O'er a hundred million free-men, who bless this noble land; 
O'er a hundred million free-men, as one devoted band- 
E'er, onward, upward, moving strong toward all that's good 

and just ; 
To sacred honor dutiful, and each exalted trust ; 

'Till every nation's people see, through tokens sure revealed, 
14 



Io6 POEMS. 

The many peaceful happy shrines that standard doth en- 
shield; 

And that earth's friendless, stricken ones may here for 
refuge come, 

And find beneath yon waving folds, an Altar, and a Home. 



NOBLE LAND OF WASHINGTON ! 



AN ODE FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY. 




OR OUR Country's ancient story ; 

For her honor, true and bright; 
For her e'er advancing glory 

And sustainment of the right : 
We do now through fond devotion, 

Sing rejoicive festal song. 
And with ever warm emotion 

Strain-exultant, thus prolong : 
Grand Columbia, 'mong the nations 

Crowned, supremest, 'neath the sun ; 
For thee, we raise our rapt oblations — 

Noble Land of Washington ! 

For our nation's loyal mothers ; 

For her daughters, gentle, pure ; 
For her fathers, sons, and brothers. 

And their every trust secure : 



Io8 POEMS. 

We do e'en through love and duty 

Lift encheering votive lay, 
While these altars teem with beauty 

On this gladsome natal day : 
Grand Columbia, 'mong the nations 

Crowned, supremest, 'neath the sun ; 
For thee we raise our rapt oblations — 

Noble Land of Washington ! 

For her daily worth, unfolden. 

For her onward, upward stride ; 
For her harvests, ripe, and golden ; 

For her wisdom, strength, and pride ; 
We did thus through fond devotion, 

Sing rejoicive festal song. 
And with ever warm emotion 

Strain-exultant, still prolong : 
Grand Columbia, 'mong the nations 

Crowned, supremest, 'neath the sun ; 
For thee, we raise our rapt oblations — 

Noble Land of Washington ! 



LOYALTY.* 

ousE YE, sons of Free-men, in patriotic cause 
^^V Of Liberty and Union, and Constitution's laws; 
Trumpet-strains are calling from fields of battle near, 
" Rouse ye, sons of Free-men, there's room for heroes here ! 
The foemen bold to meet, who would your nation rend, 
United States to save, your sacred rights defend, 
Confidence and honor, devotedness impart. 
These sovereign people make as one in mind and heart !" 

What ! shall hordes rebellious, usurp with spoiler's hand 
The choicest votive-shrines within this favored land ! 
Scenes and trophies loyal, and crypts of mighty dead ; 
Tombs of chivalrous braves, who once exultant led 
Freedom's hosts in triumph, through carnage, strife and toil. 
Across Virginia plains, and Carolina's soil ! 
And shall grim Disunion, hold undisputed sway 
O'er the shades of Marshall, and Madison, and Clay? 

* Read during our late civil strife. 



IIO POEMS. 

Of Middleton, and Wirt, and Pinckney bold and free ; 

Of the gallant Sumpter, and stout intrepid Lee ? 

O'er the home of Rutledge, iinswerved from duty's trust — 

Of noble Marion — to daring purpose, just! 

Of Nelson, Hayward, Wythe, and Carroll, firm and true ; 

Of Jefferson, the sage, who Declaration drew! 

O'er the grave of Jackson — that man who knew no fear — 

Patrick Henry's hearthside — e'er to his people dear ! 

And as wardens faithful, would ye in heart presume 

To give to stranger's keep the ever-hallowed tomb 

Of him, the chieftain strong, who did your nation save — 

Washington's Mount Vernon, — your country's Father's 

grave ! 
What! shall hordes rebellious, usurp with spoiler's hand 
The choicest votive shrines within this favored land ? 

Ah ! daily, more and more, ill-omens threaten State, 
Columbia's every trust may come to wanton fate ; 
Her archives, rare instored — her Presidential seat — 
The lofty Capitol, wherein her Senates meet ! 
Her triumphs grand, sublime, — fit grave historic page — 



POEMS. 1 1 I 

Her creative labors, adorning proudest age ! 

Fruitful vales, savannas, mountains, hills, and plains ; 

Lakes and rivers, countless, that deck her broad domains ; 

Her vast commercial ports, — emporiums of art, — 

The sterling rectitude that forms her inward heart ; 

All tokens fond and eld, associations pure. 

That do onward, upward, to goals immortal 'lure ! 

What ! shall hordes rebellious, usurp with spoiler's hand 
The choicest votive-shrines within this favored land ? 
Nay ! forbid it, True-men ! and while you love your sires, 
Kindle from their embers, anew, enduring fires ! 
Uphold this precious soil, as your fathers stayed it, 
On Independence-base, as your fathers laid it ; 
Stored with peace and honor, as your fathers blest it ; 
Grandest of the nations, as you've long confess'd it — 
Hail it proud exultant, as your fathers cheered it, 
And through trusts ennobled fondly hath endeared it : 

Then, rouse, sons of Free-men, in patriotic cause 
Of Liberty and Union, and Constitution's laws; 



112 POEMS. 

Each hallowed loyal shrine, and holy altar, save, 
'Twill crown you evermore — supremest 'mong the brave, — 
To right your country's wrongs, her sacred scenes to strew 
With stalwart hero-hearts, devoted, warm, and true. 



TRUST IN THE BANNER WAVING O'ER US 



A SOLDIER'S LYRIC. 

Tj^Bcp ORE AND More, each day by day, 
^i|^i^ We hearts loyal, would display. 
When we sing a Soldier's lay 
To the noble land that bore us ! 
Glory, would we, in her pride. 
By her stand, for her abide. 
In her honor firm confide — 
And trust in the Banner waving o'er us ! 

We that Banner, high, would hold, 
Broad its starry shield unfold ; 
Its field grand of blue and gold — 

And spread-eagle-crest, decorous ! 
Bear it would, on land and sea. 
As our standard-emblem free, 
Gonfalon, of Liberty — 

With shouts for the Banner waving o'er us ! 



15 



114 POEMS. 

We, to scenes of carnage start, 
From friends near, do now depart ; 
Leave behind each loving heart — 

While stern duty lies before us ! 

And we strive, with earnest aim, 
For a bright, exalted fame, 
And with pure, unsullied name, 

To stand by the Banner waving o'er us ! 

Greet, would we, the battle's fate, 
Greet its perils dark and great ; 
Peace, secure, to reinstate — 

Voices, countless, doth implore us ! 
E'en, to grace, devotion's scars. 
Won in Freedom's holy wars, 
'Neath yon royal Stripes and Stars — 

Through love for the Banner waving o'er us ! 

We would ever staunch appear ; 
Would not know what 'tis to fear, 
Blessing, with exultant cheer — 



POEMS. 

Columbia, proud, that bore us ! 

Laud, would oft, intrepid dead, 
Who her stalwart sons have led, 
At her altars, freely bled. 

And died for the Banner waving o'er us ! 

Seek, would we, the ardor brave 
Our heroic fathers gave 
This dear nation's rights to save — 
Lest our children should deplore us ! 

While we speed, hand linked in hand, 
A firm, free, united band. 
Dauntless, true, for native-land — 
And true to the Banner waving o'er us ! 

We, faith, sacred, would restore. 
When that flag, we thus adore ; 
Proudly waving, more and more. 
Waving, waving, waving o'er us ! 

Earnest, strong, with valor's pace, 
Rush we onward in the race. 



115 



Il6 POEMS. 

To meet foe-man — face to face — 
And strike for the Banner waving o'er us ! 

Soldiers, bold, we now would fight — 
Soldiers, pure — we'd fight for right — 
Soldiers, brave, we'd strike with might- 
Opposing hosts driving 'fore us ! 
Loyal, firm — never — never — 
Would these States, let, dissever — 
Union, now — Union, ever — 
Is faith in the Banner waving o'er us ! 

Onward all, with hearts of love, 
Onward, comrades, let us move ; 
Onward, praising God above — 

Who is waiting to restore us ! 

Onward, onward, bear the crest 
Northward, Southward, East and West, 
Of this noble country blest — 

And trust in the Banner waving o'er us ! 



AN AUTOGRAPH. 



'^ff—^EAR Friend : 
(^^ You ask me for my signature, 
My humble autograph invite ; 
That I — upon this page so pure — 
Would "J. F. Knickerbacker," write! 

'Tis written now ; 'twas quickly done ; 

A name inscribed without a name ; 
In deeds of worth and honors won, 

A nameless name — unknown to fame. 

And yet, if friendship warm and true 
Through many bright congenial hours ; 

Associations that bestrew 

Life's sweet paths with fadeless flowers : 

One may make so exceeding bold 
And presumptuous, in device. 



Il8 POEMS. 



I e'en have dared, as you behold — 
Here to write my autograph twice. 
Yours kindly, 

J. F. K. 



THE SUNNYSIDE PENMAN. 



IN MEMORIAM OF WASHINGTON IRVING. 



"fp^AUSE, Pilgrim, amid sorrow and strife, 



^i^ Pause gently by yon cottage serene ; 
Deputed by the Giver of Life — 

Behold ! there an archangel hath been ! 

An Archangel, on mission of love, 
From ethereal regions, come down, 

Gentle-souled Irving, bearing above, — 
To be crowned with a heavenly crown, 

* * vr -Kr * 

Yes ! — sweet Penman — thy race hath been run. 
High, trodden, in the pathways of fame ; 

And all thy honors earthly, been won 
With duteous and unsullied name. 

No more to thy home, — bright " Sunnyside," 
In the midst of surroundings so dear ; 



I20 POEMS. 

Shalt thou, with ever generous pride — 
Give welcome, and hospitable cheer ! 

Nor more may quaint "Jonathan Old-style," 
" Chronicle " each comical rumor ; 

Nor " Salmagundi " pages beguile 
With their broad and whimsical humor ! 

Nor more shall " Geoffry Crayon " indite 
Grave romance, or alluring story ; 

Nor sage " Deiedrich Knickerbocker " write 
Of olden " Niew-Niederlandts " glory. 

Nor more proud alcove, nor bookman's stall. 

Staid or mirth-giving volume obtain 
. From gifted author of " Bracebridge Hall," 
"Tales of Alhambra " — " Legends of Spain." 

Yet have we oft, in thy days of life. 

When inspiring thoughts thou didst impart ; 

Wept tears of joy o'er thy sweet " The Wife " — 
Of sorrow sad, over "Broken Heart !" 



POEMS. 121 

And often, too, whilst thou still wert here. 
Did we, thee, with glad laughter follow ; 

And in boyhood's days, did greatly fear — 
" Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow !" 

Mythical Kaatskill, mountain, and dale, 

Eacli lofty peak and deep indenture ; 
Traversed o'er, through thy wonderful tale — 

" Rip Van Winkle's" fabled adventure ! 

To Stratford-on-Avon, long been wed. 

Home of Shakspeare — prince of the sages ; 

And Westminster Abbey aisles have tread — 
Through thy genial, luminous pages ! 

Proud England's customs, merry, and old, 

Her bright May-day sports, sweet Christmas-tide ; 

Honored the more for what thou hast told — 
Columbia's son, and royal pride ! 

'Mid scenes of sentiment, scenes of mirth, 

Through realms of fancy, with thee, did roam, 
i6 



122 POEMS. 

Fond read thy works, round the happy hearth, 
And holy shrine, of our childhood's home ! 
***** 

Now, thee we found, 'mid Abbotsford halls 
As great Walter Scott's warm-welcomed guest ; 

Now, with Byron, within Newstead walls — 
Anon — among the wilds of the West ! 

Now, treading o'er fair Italy's shore, 

And now across broad Netherland plain, 

Now conversing with Campbell and Moore — 
Anon, Minister to Court of Spain ! 

Now, reposing 'neath Saracen's dome, 

And now, lauding thy country's advance ; 

Now, proud Albion making thy home ; 
Anon, beautiful, vineyard-clad France ! 

Now, pausing within temple to pray, 
And now little children caressing ; 

Now, encheering the humble man's way — 
Anon — whole communities blessing ! 



POEMS. 123 

Now, 'shrining proud hero witli glory, 
And now, to genius bringing new birth ; 

Now, 'lating pathetical story — 

Anon — cheered with exuberant mirth ! 

Now, honored both in country and town, 

As peer among savans and sages ; 
Now, through thy " Sketch Book" winning renown — 

Anon — through " Knickerbocker " pages ! 

Now, to sweet Goldsmith giving due meed. 

And now, 'scribing Granada's career ; 
Now, with Mahomet, founding a Creed ! 

Anon — with bold Columbus, a sphere ! 

Last — 'luming thy Fame's closing portal 

With soft radiance, clear as the sun : 
Shrining thy name, with his, — immortal ! 

In thy noble " Life of Washington ! 
***** 
We thus, dear Friend, in triumph recall 

Those gifts manifold thou didst combine — 



124 POEMS. 

Thy great true soul, over-circling all — 
As with sheen aureola, divine ! 

***** 

Pilgrim, paused ; by the " Sunnyside" home 
Wherein Archangel, with power given 

From Life's Almighty Giver, had come, 
And that pure spirit upborne to Heaven ! 

Upborne to Heaven ! — in fruitage mature, 
Like sheaf, full-ripened, of golden corn ; 

Ready for sickle, and harvest cure — 

Faith's offering meet ! Eternal — morn ! 

Upborne to Heaven ! away fram the view 
Of those who had loved him long and well; 

Genial and gentle, simple and true, 
Of those who with him — in essence — dwell ! 

Upborne to Heaven !— yet, lingering still. 
In the boons, precious, his virtues bore — 

His earthly sphere,— none hoping to fill,— 
It daily expanding, more and more ! 



POEMS. 125 

Upborne to Heaven ! Yea ! glorious truth, — 
For, dawn of this morn, two cycled years,* 

Of Time, doth crown his immortal youth : 
Two cycled years, 'mong celestial spheres ! 

Upborne to Heaven ! — his beautiful fame, — 

Lofty, serene ! may never decrease ; 
Thousands of hearthsides 'balming his name, — 

Rest, — spirit of Irving ! Rest, in peace. 



* At the Hostead, November 28, 1863. 



WITH HERO'S MIND AND HEART. 




NWARD, firm in duty, and onward, bold in strife, 
^^^ Fearing not, but greeting, temptations dark in life ; 
Evil, oft to vanquish, the noble, e'er to save. 
Is bright crown immortal, and triumph for the brave ; 
Stern grim pride to conquer, rich blessings to bestrew, 
With hero's mind and heart, and purpose high and true : 

To humble boastful might, and quell usurping lust. 
Virtue-pure, exalting, the faithful, wise and just ; 
Aggression laying low, and each dread tyrant scourge, 
With ceaseless moral fire, the world from sin to purge — 
Shows unending glory ; doth with best strength endue 
A hero's mind and heart, in purpose grave and true : 

Where'er there is power, got from ignoble gain ; 
Where'er there is sorrow, — come through debasing stain ; 
Where'er there is meanness, and dire oppression's laws ; 
Where'er is anything, — from an unhallowed cause ; 



POEMS. 127 

He is brave and sterling, who doth such ill eschew- 
Through hero's mind and heart, with purpose fixed and true. 

'Tis only now and then, 'tis only here and there. 

Such royal souls are found, — for valiantness is rare ! 

A moral courage, firm, intrepid, stout to face 

The thousand forms of wrong, this nether-sphere disgrace ; 

Yet, should men of honor the fearless good pursue. 

With heroes' minds and hearts, and purpose bold and true : 

Earth's greatest, wisest, best, live not in cloister-cell ; 
But her braves, supremest, among temptations dwell : 
Who know, through meeting much, the real ills of life. 
That, to conquer evil, one needs must battle, strife ! 
Onward, dauntless ever, — the Godlike to renew, — 
Moves hero's mind and heart, through purpose strong and 
true : 

Nor counsels, grave and sage, — nor words of ye who 

preach, — 
Nor poet's soaring muse, may always farthest reach ! 
True-nerve, oft grandest is, amid a world, ajar, 



128 POEMS. 

'Mong perils, and defeat, illumes as brightest star ; 
Stern, and bold, and fearless, — yet, kind and gentle, too, — 
Reigns hero's mind and heart, with purpose crowned and 
true: 

Nor on proud martial field, which carnage hath imprest. 
Surely tread the bravest, sublimest, noblest, best ! 
But in life's every sphere may daring souls be found, 
'Mid senates, courts and camps, — and 'mong the unrenown- 

ed ; 
Chieftains, sages, scholars ! who highest right pursue 
With heroes' minds and hearts, and purpose grand and true. 

Nor needs he special gifts, who seeks to nobly shine ; 

Each truly moral man is more or less divine ! 

And every calling pure, of whatsoever name. 

Opens spacious circuit, for an enduring fame : 

Poet, Preacher, Peasant ! who would high worth pursue. 

With hero's mind and heart, and purpose kind and true : 

Nor needs he victor's spoils, nor herald's vaunted skill, 
On glory's blazoned shield ! True manhood's crest, is will ! 



POEMS. I2Q 



Firm, triumphant looming— in sacred cause secure- 
E'er to conscience leal, yet genial, gentle, pure! 
Wisdom's trust assuring, and loving virtue's, too, 
To hero's mind and heart, with purpose warm and true : 

Nor needs he riches vast, nor blood of royal birth; 
Nor rank, nor station proud ! For manhood's crown is 

worth ! 
Of each sphere the sovereign ! sublime, in every trust ! 
Prime, his name enthroning, among Creation's just : 
Honor, valor, duty ! through noblest walks, to woo. 
With hero's mind and heart, and purpose, sure and true ! 

'Mid cot, or palace-hall ! 'Mid high or low estate ! 
He, supreme, is alway ! glorious, grand and great ! 
Champion, safe and strong, for grave, eternal right ; 
Valiant, chieftain-leader ! a Godlike beacon light ! 
And guide for peoples all, throughout the world to view, 
As hero's mind and heart, with purpose, stern, yet true ! 



17 



HYMN TO TRUTH. 



(2^ 




XALTED, holy Truth divine ! 
Angelic spirit fair ! 
Before thy pure celestial shrine 
We loyal vows declare. 

Thy look serene, so free from guile, 
With faithful will would bless, 

E'en whilst we seek thy loving smile, 
And gentle, soft caress. 

Oiferings, best, we bring to thee. 
Our choicest boons impart — 

But chiefly on low bended knee 
Do give devoted heart : 

While, from above, we. ask for grace 

Our soul-life to restore, 
And that thy mild benignant face 

May greet us more and more. 



POEMS. 131 

Exalted, holy Truth divine ! 

Angelic spirit fair ! 
Before thy pure celestial shrine 

We loyal vows declare. 



THE MAN OF THE TIME! 



ARNEST in purpose, and brave in desire, 




His soul rich aglow with heavenly fire ; 
All around 'luming with ardor sublime — 
Right onward should move the Man of the Time ! 
'Mid this era dark, soliciting light. 
For light that doth come with grandeur of might ; 
For light that is felt, and light that is seen. 
Enriching each heart with fruitage serene — 
Virtue upholdeth the wisdom of force. 
Wielding with power, right motive in course ; 
So sadly adrift have mortals become, 
Like wanderers lost, — so helplessly roam, — 
That principles stern are now in demand. 
Rousing to duty with voice of command. 
Wanted ! are heralds, of clear trumpet tones — 
Champions, ardent, with sinews and bones — 
Lawgivers, sterling, regardless of pelf — 
Heroes, undaunted, forgetful of self — 



POEMS. 

To give freshened curve to movement of things, 
And root from the earth, disorder it brings ! 
Not proudly basking, 'neath halcyon bowers, 
Not in grand places, beguiling the hours ; 
But in the highways and byways of Hfe, 
'Mong the surroundings engendering strife— 
The Man of the Time speeds on undismayed, 
A conquering chief, for triumph arrayed : 
Exultant in soul, majestic and strong, 
Breasting each bulwark and fortress of wrong, 
With victory crowned, with righteousness shod. 
Exalting his race, and valiant for God ! 
For minds of the age estray have been led. 
Through every device, to fantasy wed : 
Invention, and craft, in multiplied train ; 
Discoveries made, deep themes to explain ; 
Science, conceited, dark mysteries grave ; 
Theories daring — like turbulent wave — 
Life's magnet confuse, distract from its pole, 
And make things in part to seem as the whole : 
Best manhood is lost in what is evolved, 



^SS 



134 POEMS. 

And destiny sure remains uninsolved. 

Virtue is weakened, while blessings surround ; 

Charity falters, though wonders abound ; 

Honor departeth, a shadow unknown : 

Honesty totters — spurned idol of stone — 

Both, high and the low, are grasping for gain. 

Unscrupulous oft, from whence they obtain — 

Ring, clear, is wanting of genuine ore. 

And stamp of true mint, on that we instore. 

Chaos o'erruleth our triumphs of skill, 

And sturdiest hearts are halting in will. 

Philosophy's drift is faith to displace, 

Making as worthless the guerdon of Grace ! 

The Man of the Time looks forth through it all ; 

Like hero of old, for standard doth call — 

Of Truth immortal ! — with glorious shout — 

Intrepid it wields through this world of doubt ; 

Proclaiming aloud, with clarion voice — 

" Jehovah Liveth ! Let Mortals Rejoice !" 

While echoes from high, in thunders declare 

"Omnipotence Reigns! Let Mortals, — Beware!" 



GOOD THAT 'S DONE BY POET'S LAYS ! 




Poet's heart is heart of a child, 
" '' Simple, and true, and unbeguiled ! 



Seems I hear, afar and near. 
Echoed loud in accents clear, 
'Mid the soft still evening air, 
Voices sweet of spirits fair : 
From rank low, high station borne; 
From proud hall and cottage 'lorn ; 
From each nigh and distant clime ; 
From all nations — From all Time — 
Voices singing Muse's praise — 
Good that's done by Poet's lays : 
For Poet's heart is heart of a child. 
Simple, and true, and unbeguiled ! 

'Neath a roof of roses rare, 
Sits a maiden bright and fair — 



13^ POEMS. 

Greeting fond the passing hours, 
Breathing fumes of lovely flowers. 
Round her brow a circlet-sheen 
Shines with halo-light serene, 
While each soft angelic grace 
Saint-like charms her fresh, kind face. 
Virtue e'er endearing heart. 
She doth love through faith impart 
Sitting thus, in sweet recline. 
Holy, pure, a virgin-shrine. 
From her breast springs gentle sigh — 
Tear-drops glisten in each eye — 
Yet, not of grief, dark and drear, 
Comes forth sigh and pearly tear — 
But from thoughts of rare delight 
Stored within a fountain bright 
Kindling warm her soul aglow 
With Devotion's ardent flow. 

Forms of joy seem often sad. 
When one's heart is truly glad ; 



POEMS. 137 

And to minds depressed with grief 
Laughing face doth show relief — 
What we oftimes deepest feel, 
Outward sign may not reveal — 
Noblest thoughts our souls express 
Smile through tears of tenderness. 

Pages pure, are open laid, 
'Fore the eyes of that fair maid ! 
Pages, stored with wisdom grand ; 
Pages, writ by Poet's hand ; 
Pages, wrought from Poet's mind ; 
Pages, that truth best impart ; 
Pages, speaking Poet's heart ! 
While, the maid in them hath found, 
Thoughts serene, with glory crowned : 
Thoughts defining holy love ; 
Thoughts that 'lured to realms above ; 
Thoughts exalted, warm imprest ; 
Thoughts with wondrous skill expressed : 
And she feels she's wiser grown, 



18 



138 POEMS. 

Through those lessons, once unknown, 
Teems her will more brave and true 
Looming thus before her view 
Glowing words of knowledge meet, 
Duty, faith, and virtue sweet : 
Gladsome now, she proud doth sing. 
Gleeful strain like birds of Spring, 
In soft tones of love conveys 
Good .that's done by Poet's lays : 

For Poet's heart is heart of a child, 

Simple, and true, and unbeguiled ! 

Stands, a youth, with valor rife, 

At the starting-point in Life ! 

His prime worth through deeds made known 

Mind displays of lofty tone, 

In all learning deeply lored, 

And with choicest virtues stored; 

Thus ennobled, high endowed, 

'Domed by graces rare bestowed — 

Stands that youth with valor rife. 



POEMS. 

At the starting-post of Life ! 
Yet what makes him wise and strong, 
Is much due to Muse's song, 
And his Poet's heart within 
Bright illumed from souls akin; 
And what makes him pure, refined. 
Of grand aim, exalted mind, 
Are those precious words conveyed 
By the gentle Lyric-maid— 
And what makes him brave, sublime, 
Fearless grasping ills of Time — 
Is what Poets only know. 
As their works devoted show ; 
And what makes him, now, so blest. 
Is the bard-voice, in his breast — 
Lauding with glad words of praise 
Good that's done by Poet's lays : 
For Poet's heart is heart of a child, 
Simple, and true, and unbeguiled ! 



139 



14° POEMS. 

Proud before you, crowned a Sage, 
Moves a man of silvered age ! 
Large his mind with wisdom filled, 
Though, withal, a child instilled — 
What the world counts choice and dear 
Came to him from far and near, 
While to honor, faith and truth, 
He was constant from his youth. 
Long hath he with fearless stride 
Trod life's open pathway wide. 
Greeting now when near its close 
Holy calm of sweet repose. 
Yet if one of him did ask 
What him makes thus grandly bask 
In all knowledge grave renowned 
And with virtues rarest crowned } 
He might say with frankness true, 
" Much of it is justly due 
To what fair scribe him hath taught, 
Through her pages faithful wrought. 
When therein she did impart 



POEMS. . 141 

Feelings, best, of warm, true heart !" 

And the Sage would further state, 
" Fact and Fancy both are great, 

Sisters-twin in happy strife, 

Each advancing highest life !" 

And he, wise, might tell you more, 
" How in Book of sacred lore, 

Found immortal epics are 

Writ by bards beyond compare !" 

And yet still to duty strong. 

His theme noble would prolong 

When he through himself displays 

Good that's done by Poet's lays : 
For Poet's heart is heart of a child. 
Simple, and true, and unbeguiled ! 

Countless tongues respond refrain 
In one grand harmonic strain ; 
While is heard, afar and near, 
Echoed loud in accents clear, 
'Mid the soft still evening air, 



142 POEMS. 

Voices sweet of spirits fair : 
From rank low, high station borne ; 
From proud hall and cottage 'lorn ; 
From each nigh and distant clime ; 
From all nations — From all Time — 
Voices singing Muse's praise — 
Good that's done by Poet's lays : 
For Poet's heart is heart of a child, 
Simple, and true, and unbeguiled ! 



ENDING AND ENDLESS. 




INDING AND Endless are the ways of life, 

Gladdened by promise, or sorrowed through strife ; 
Movements and forces may seemingly cease, 
When they, most truly, momentum increase— 
If unrequited and destiny sealed, 
Heart that is broken is seldom true-healed— 
Words, and kind actions appearing as not, 
In memory's store are rarely forgot : 
Joys that have cheered us, and hopes that allured, 
'Tokening absence, have only matured — 
Circle-diurnal, of Even and Morn, 
Daily departing, is ever new born — 
Souls of the noble, from friendship rebelled. 
Grow loving afresh, in calmness of eld- 
Song of the minstrel, and infancy's cry, 
Long years agone heard, yet echo on high : 
Conscience-reproving,— apparently stilled,— 



144 ■ POEMS, 

On being revived, rules hundred-fold willed ! 
And so it befalls whate'er we pursue, 
Ending and Endless are alway in view; 
Mortal ! Immortal ! is everywhere shrined, 
Eternity, Time, forever combined. 

And we who have sped — our readers and self — 
Through this little book, seeking wisdom's wealth; 
Pause, greeting, Farewell ! — for the end is near ; 
Yet, hope assuring, doth future encheer : 
With memories kind may each heart be rife, 
Ending and Endless are the ways of life. 






/ ' 




